In this powerful catechetical conference, Father John Hardon, S.J., cuts through modern confusion by restoring the Catholic understanding of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass as the very heart of Eucharistic faith. He explains that the Mass is not merely a communal meal or symbolic remembrance, but the real, sacrificial re‑presentation of Calvary—the same sacrifice Christ offered once on the Cross, now made present on Catholic altars throughout the world. Christ merited every grace needed for salvation on Good Friday, but those graces must be applied to souls, and the Mass is the primary channel through which that saving power flows into the world.
1. “I will give them all the graces necessary in their state of life.”
Christ promises the ongoing grace needed to remain, be faithful, and become holy in one’s vocation.
2. “I will establish peace in their homes.”
Peace among family members — rooted in interior peace that comes from conforming one’s will to Christ.
3. “I will comfort them in all their afflictions.”
Christ strengthens the mind (conviction) and will (courage) to endure trials, not escape them.
4. “I will be their secure refuge during life, and above all in death.”
A promise of hope, trust, and interior assurance — especially at the moment of death.
5. “I will bestow abundant blessings on all their undertakings.”
Christ blesses the works of those who love Him, beyond natural talent or ability.
6. “Sinners will find in my Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.”
A single act of selfless love toward Christ can wipe out a lifetime of sin.
7. “Tepid souls shall become fervent.”
Christ detests lukewarmness, yet promises to inflame the hearts of the spiritually indifferent.
8. “Fervent souls shall quickly mount to high perfection.”
A single sincere act of love for Christ can elevate a soul rapidly toward sanctity.
9. “I will bless every place where an image of my Heart is exposed and honored.”
Images serve as channels of grace when they are not only displayed but reverently honored.
10. “I will give priests the gift of touching the most hardened hearts.”
Priests devoted to the Sacred Heart receive extraordinary power to convert sinners.
11. “Those who promote this devotion shall have their names written in my Heart, never to be blotted out.”
Loving Christ means sharing devotion to His Heart, especially as present in the Eucharist.
12. “I promise you… that my all-powerful love will grant to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Fridays for nine consecutive months the grace of final perseverance.”
They will not die without the sacraments; His Heart will be their refuge at the final moment.
