Catholic Congresses are large gatherings of the faithful centered on prayer, formation, and renewal. Just as a Eucharistic Congress highlights the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, and a Marian Congress draws us closer to Jesus through devotion to Our Lady, the Sacred Heart Congress uniquely focuses on the Heart of Jesus Himself.
The Sacred Heart Congress emphasizes personal conversion and intimacy with Christ, inviting participants to enthrone His Heart in their homes and parishes. It is a day of grace marked by the Holy Mass, Confession, Eucharistic Adoration, inspiring talks, and powerful witness and fellowship.
It is believed that the First Sacred Heart Congress took place in Paray le Monial, France in 2011. It was said that the purpose of the Sacred Heart Congress was designed to “further the creation of what Pope John Paul II termed ‘a civilization of love,’ one individual at a time, one family at a time, so that through the family, the faith would be passed along,” said Fr. William Petrie, ss.cc., Provincial Superior of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, U.S.A. East Province, and one of the organizers of the Sacred Heart Congress in France. (Click here to learn more about the First Congress)
The goal of the Sacred Heart Congress in Columbus, OH is to renew devotion and faith each year in the life of the faithful and help them to seek to reclaim and renew all things in Christ. Since our first Congress set in 2011 we are in unison with the movements of the Holy Spirit to “renew all things in Christ through Christ.”
It is states that all Catholic Congresses aim to strengthen Catholic identity and forward the mission to grow in holiness, the Sacred Heart Congress stands out by offering a path of healing, hope, and renewal rooted in the love of Jesus and His promises to those who honor His Sacred Heart. It is much like a half-day retreat but we are also representing our families, homes, parishes and communities as we seek to grow closer to Jesus.
Whether you join us in person or stream the event online for free, your participation is invaluable. Thank you for responding to Jesus’ call, and for your ongoing efforts to spread His love to those around you. We already have people signed up around the world- to join us in a day of prayer and reflection. Direct link to sign up for the 15th Annual Sacred Heart Congress on November 7, 2026.
No matter the trials we face, we can place our trust in Jesus no matter how big or small the issue is. The Lord desires to strengthen faith, restore His Kingdom of Love in our hearts, homes and bring HIs peace and hope.
As St. Margaret Mary said, “He has strengthened me in the conviction that He takes great pleasure in being loved, known, and honored by His creatures. This pleasure is so great that, if I am not mistaken, He promised me that all those who are devoted and consecrated to Him will never be lost.”
Now is the time to be ambassadors for Christ! Let us respond to His call and be witnesses in the darkness. Please join us for the Congress to ask the Lord to help us our world. Read the recap of the Sacred Heart Congress in the Vatican News from 2024.