Originating from the 17th-century visions of St. Mary Margaret Alacoque the First Friday Devotion was officially recognized and approved by Pope Clement XIII in 1765. It is a way to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus for the benefit of one's own soul for eternity and even happiness in this life, and for the conversion of other souls to Christ. By attending Mass, receiving Holy Communion, and making an act of reparation for sins on the first Friday of nine consecutive months, there are 12 Promises made for the sake of the soul.
Jesus said to St. Mary Margaret:
"My Heart is so full of love for men that It can no longer contain the flames of It's burning love. I must discover to men the treasures of My Heart and save them from perdition."
How to Practice
Attend Holy Mass on the first Friday of each month for nine consecutive months.
Receive Holy Communion with the intention of making reparation for sins against the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Go to Confession before or around the time of your First Friday Masses.
Consider additional practices like Eucharistic adoration or praying a litany to the Sacred Heart, as these are often part of the devotion.
12 Promises for Fulfilling the Devotion
I will give them all the graces necessary in their state of life.
I will establish peace in their homes.
I will comfort them in all their afflictions.
I will be their secure refuge during life, and above all, in death.
I will bestow abundant blessings upon all their undertakings.
Sinners will find in my Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.
Lukewarm souls shall become fervent.
Fervent souls shall quickly mount to high perfection.
I will bless every place in which an image of my Heart is exposed and honored.
I will give to priests the gift of touching the most hardened hearts.
Those who shall promote this devotion shall have their names written in my Heart.
I promise you in the excessive mercy of my Heart that my all-powerful love will grant to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Fridays in nine consecutive months the grace of final perseverance; they shall not die in my disgrace, nor without receiving their sacraments. My divine Heart shall be their safe refuge in this last moment.