| The Sacred Heart of Jesus Images called by this name feature a flaming heart surmounted by a cross, pierced by a sword, and surrounded by a crown of thorns. The heart is almost always seen on the breast of Jesus, who points to it while engaging the viewer with his eyes, as at left (exception). Although there had been precedents since the middle ages, widespread devotion to the Sacred Heart began in the 17th century with the visions of a French nun, St. Margaret Mary Alacocque, who said Jesus had asked her to announce that the world should honor him in the figure of his fleshly heart. Feast day: since 1969, the Friday after the second Sunday after Pentecost. At left, "" - Location Other images: Also see: Menu |