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In honor of our country’s 250th Anniversary and in union with our fellow Knights around the nation, the South Philadelphia Knights of Columbus will be leading our parishes in a Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, culminating in scheduled Holy Hours of devotion, prayer and adoration the week of the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 

These Holy Hours are part of the Knights of Columbus Pilgrim Icon Program. The Pilgrim Icon Program features an image that is particularly meaningful to the communities in which the Knights serve.  The Holy Hour program used for this consecration is inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical letter Dilexit Nos (He Loved Us).

During the holy hour, an icon depicting the most famous image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, painted in 1767 by Pompeo Batoni and now venerated in the Church of the Gesù in Rome, will be displayed. 

The Sacred Heart Holy Hour will include readings from Sacred Scripture and reflections from Pope Francis on the Sacred Heart of Jesus, as well as the Divine Mercy Chaplet, prayers to the Sacred Heart, and time for silent prayer and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The prayer service will lead all present to grow in their love of God and devotion to his Most Sacred Heart.

The Novena and Holy Hours will be led by the brothers of the Knights of Columbus San Salvador Council and members of our covered parishes.

Following the event, families are encouraged to enthrone the Sacred Heart in their homes by placing an image of the Sacred Heart in a place of honor. This devotion was inspired by Jesus’ promise to St. Mary Margaret Alacoque to “bless every place in which an image of His Heart is exposed and honored.”  The Knights of Columbus San Salvador Council are offering parishioners the opportunity to enthrone this icon of Jesus their home using a special ceremonial packet and enthronement resources that will be available for purchase.  Scheduled