Diocese of Buffalo to celebrate consecration of US to Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 12

By the Diocese of Buffalo

The Diocese of Buffalo will join Catholics across the nation in a historic celebration of faith and devotion with a special consecration Mass on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, at 5:15 p.m. Friday, June 12, at St. Joseph Cathedral.

The Mass coincides with the national call by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to consecrate the U.S. to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in anticipation of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. All are welcome to attend this special liturgy celebrating faith, unity, and the enduring spiritual foundations of the nation.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus remains one of the most profound symbols in Catholic spirituality, representing the divine love and mercy of Christ, whose heart was pierced on the cross for the salvation of humanity. Rooted in centuries of Catholic tradition, devotion to the Sacred Heart calls the faithful to deepen their relationship with Jesus and reflect upon his boundless compassion, sacrifice, and unwavering love.

The Most Rev. Michael W. Fisher, bishop, said, “I encourage all Catholics across our region to participate in this special dedication of our nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, mindful of our obligation as disciples to be constantly attentive to the sufferings and needs of others, particularly in these days when so many struggle for life’s basic necessities and are denied the dignity that is theirs as children of God. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in service to others, to speak for the oppressed and vulnerable, and to work ceaselessly for the cause of justice. In doing so, we help to fulfill the promise of our nation and the fuller realization of those inalienable rights enshrined in our Constitution for the benefit of all.”

As the U.S. commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Catholic bishops of the U.S. are highlighting the contributions of Catholics to American life and the enduring impact of the Catholic faith on the history and future of the nation.

The Diocese of Buffalo’s June 12 celebration will also coincide with the 150th anniversary celebration of the cathedral’s historic centennial organ, originally constructed in honor of the nation’s 100th anniversary. Additional commemorative events connected to the anniversary celebrations will take place throughout the year and details will be publicized.

In preparation for the consecration Mass, Catholics throughout Western New York are encouraged to participate in the national novena to the Sacred Heart from June 3-11, joining millions of Catholic faithful across the country in prayer and spiritual renewal.

The faithful are also invited to participate in two nationwide initiatives sponsored by the USCCB:

•“250 Hours of Adoration,” encouraging Eucharistic adoration and prayer for the nation; and

•“250 Works of Mercy,” inviting Catholics to serve others as a visible sign of hope and charity for the future of the country. Visit USCCB Sacred Heart Consecration.

Additional resources, including promotional materials and information related to these celebrations, are available through the Diocese of Buffalo office of worship webpage at Office of Worship – Diocese of Buffalo.

Parishes, vicariates, and Catholic organizations interested in participating more fully in these milestone celebrations are encouraged to contact the Diocese for additional ideas and resources.