The Holy Name of Jesus


Today the Church celebrates the optional memorial of the Most Holy Name of Jesus. The wonders of the Incarnate Word are revealed by singing the praises of His holy name. The name of Jesus means Savior; it had been shown in a dream to Joseph together with its meaning and to Our Lady at the annunciation by the Archangel Gabriel.

Devotion to the Holy Name is deeply rooted in the Sacred Scriptures, especially in the Acts of the Apostles. It was promoted in a special manner by St. Bernard, St. Bernardine of Siena, St. John Capistrano and by the Franciscan Order. It was extended to the whole Church in 1727 during the pontificate of Innocent XIII.

He that is mighty hath done great things to me, and holy is His Name.~ Luke i. 49"

Jesus, Name full of glory, grace, love and strength! You are the refuge of those who repent, our banner of warfare in this life, the medicine of souls, the comfort of those who morn, the delight of those who believe, the light of those who preach the true faith, the wages of those who toil, the healing of the sick. To You our devotion aspires; by You our prayers are received; we delight in contemplating You. O Name of Jesus, You are the glory of all the saints for eternity. Amen."

~St. Bernardine of Sienna. Rev. Charles Dollen, Prayer Book of the Saints, Our Sunday Visitor (1984)

Saint Bernadine fostered the Holy Name Devotion.

Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus.
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