The devotion to the Sacred Heart grew out of one woman’s story: Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque.

St. Margaret Mary was born “Marguerite Alacoque” on July 22, 1647 in France. Her parents, Philiberte and Claude, were respected and wealthy. Marguerite helped her mother run the household for her four brothers and didn’t go to school herself.

When she was 8 years old, Marguerite’s father died. With his death, the family was financially ruined. Relatives inherited their home and wealth. But Philiberte, Marguerite’s mother, wanted Marguerite to have a good religious education, so she sent her off to a boarding school at a convent run by the Poor Clares.

It was there that Marguerite fell in love with religious life, especially with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. When she returned home, Marguerite found that her home was now ruled by her grandmother, aunt, and great aunt. Marguerite writes how strict and unloving the home was: “We dared not do anything without permission.” Everything was under lock and key.

That’s a difficult home!

St. Margaret Mary’s story shows the power of family. Her mother, wanting her to have good religious formation, sent her to a convent school where she fell in love with Jesus. Her grandmother, aunt, and great aunt were so controlling they made life unbearable.

The family is where we first learn our faith. The future of the Church begins in our homes. That’s why our families need our prayers today!

St. Margaret Mary didn’t grow up in a perfect home. Neither did any of us! Neither will your children! But by constantly trying to seek Jesus, we can grow in holiness, no matter our situation.

PRAY WITH US AT 7PM CT

Join us for the Family Rosary Across America tonight at 7pm CT. Let’s pray for all families – that they might help lead others to Christ.

And now, you can also join our Family Rosary Across America text group by texting “PRAY” to 914914 for updates and reminders to pray with us during this novena.

See you at the Rosary!