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Pope Francis has introduced a new encyclical focused on the Sacred Heart of Jesus, described by the president of the U.S. Catholic bishops' conference as "a simple and powerful cure" for today's divided world. The document, titled “Dilexit Nos,” was released on October 24, following an announcement in June that it would aim to guide ecclesial renewal and address a world perceived as having lost its heart.
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, stated, “The ills of modern society can read like a litany of uncurable diseases: consumerism, secularism, partisanism.” He added that Pope Francis’ latest encyclical teaches that devotion to Jesus' heart can open individuals to new ways of love.
Subtitled “On the human and divine love of the heart of Jesus Christ,” the encyclical is available in multiple languages on the Vatican’s website. It draws from Scripture, church teachings, and writings by saints about this centuries-old devotion. The document complements previous papal encyclicals on social teaching such as “Laudato Si’” and “Fratelli Tutti.”
Pope Francis wrote that this document could help link social teachings with an encounter with Jesus Christ's love: "For it is by drinking of that same love that we become capable of forging bonds of fraternity."
Father Thomas Dailey noted how focusing on Christ's heart could redirect attention to what matters most in humanity amid current conflicts. Timothy O'Donnell highlighted how this encyclical might help people return to Christianity's essentials amid loneliness and secular influences.
Father Donald Calloway emphasized how devotion to Jesus' heart reflects devotion to personhood amidst technological advancements often neglecting personal impact. He stressed the importance of attending to God's heart during challenging times.
Gina Christian reports for OSV News and can be followed on X @GinaJesseReina.
