This encyclical focuses on the theme of human and divine love as embodied in the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Released amidst a world troubled by war, socio-economic inequalities, unchecked consumerism, and technologies that threaten to undermine human nature, the encyclical calls for a renewed focus on Christ's heart as a symbol of compassion and spiritual healing.
The release of Dilexit nos coincides with the 350th anniversary of the first apparition of the Sacred Heart to St Margaret Mary Alacoque in 1673. Our Lord revealed to the French nun His heart, surrounded by flames and encircled by thorns, symbolizing His love for humanity despite the wounds inflicted by sin. The apparitions took place at the convent of Paray-le-Monial in Burgundy, France.
In the encyclical, Pope Francis highlights the place of the Sacred Heart in the history of the Society. He notes that “the spirituality of the Society of Jesus has always proposed an ‘interior knowledge of the Lord in order to love and follow him more fully’” (Dilexit nos 144), and St Ignatius suggests to retreatants to “enter into the heart of Christ” when they contemplate the wounded side of the crucified Lord in the Spiritual Exercises.
