Sacred Heart

Sacred Heart is a national holiday in Colombia that’s observed on a Monday that occurs ten weeks after Easter Sunday. This holiday is known as “El Sagrado Corazón de Jesús” in Spanish, which means Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in English.

On the Roman Catholic Calendar, this holiday is observed 19-days after Pentecost, but like so many Catholic holidays in Colombia, this day is observed on the Monday following the actual event. It’s a day for people to attend religious services, spend time with family, and renew their devotion to the heart of Jesus as a symbol of his love for all of humankind.

The History Of The Sacred Heart In Colombia

This holiday originally began during the Medieval Period and featured the faithful worshiping the sacred wounds that Jesus received while he was being crucified. During the 17th century, the devotion became more widespread through a French nun now known as Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque.

According to her, she learned this devotion from Jesus when he appeared to her as an apparition. The devotion of the Sacred Heart would then spread all across Spain, thanks to the works of the Jesuits. Spanish missionaries would then take the devotion to Latin America.

Observing The Sacred Heart In Colombia

On this day, many Colombians go to special services devoted to the Sacred Heart and take communion.  People also use this holiday to spend time with friends and family members. It’s also a day when Colombians enjoy meals with their loved ones.

It’s typical to enjoy foods such as empanadas, arepas, and fresh fruits on this day. People can spread the word about this holiday using the hashtag #SacredHeartColombia on their social media accounts.

Where is it celebrated?
Colombia (National holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
June 10 Monday
Next year (2025)
June 30 Monday
Last year (2023)
June 19 Monday