Introduction & Week 1

Introduction

Every Tuesday, the Church invites us to contemplate the Holy Face of Jesus—the Face that bore the weight of suffering, the radiance of love, and the mystery of redemption. This devotion, revealed to Sister Marie de Saint‑Pierre in the 19th century and approved by Pope Leo XIII, calls us to make reparation for blasphemy, atheism, and sins against the dignity of Christ’s Face.

Traditionally prayed as a novena leading up to Shrove Tuesday, the devotion has blossomed into a weekly rhythm of prayer and reparation. By dedicating each Tuesday to the Holy Face, we anchor our week in mercy, trust, and renewal.

To gaze upon the Holy Face is to be reminded that love is not earned—it is freely given. Each prayer becomes a step closer to purity of heart, a deeper trust in Christ’s compassion, and a communal act of hospitality that extends His mercy into our homes and gatherings.

This series, Holy Face Tuesdays, offers prayers, reflections, and simple acts of hospitality to help us live the devotion not only in words but in daily rhythms. May each Tuesday become a small pilgrimage into the heart of Christ’s love.

Week 1 – Purity of Heart

🙏 Opening Prayer

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“O Most Holy Face of Jesus, look with tenderness on us who are sinners.
Thou art a merciful God, full of love and compassion.
Keep us pure of heart, so that we may see Thee always.”

📖 Psalm 51 (excerpt)

Have mercy on me, O God, in Thy goodness;
In Thy great tenderness wipe away my faults.
Wash me clean of my guilt, purify me from my sin.

🌹 Reflection

Today we begin our weekly rhythm of reparation and trust. The Holy Face devotion calls us to purity of heart—not perfection, but openness. To gaze upon Christ’s Face is to let His mercy wash away the masks we wear and the burdens we carry. Purity is not about being flawless; it is about being transparent before God, allowing His love to shine through us.

🍞 Hospitality Cue

Anchor this prayer in your home or community with a simple act: share bread and olive oil at the table. This humble meal symbolizes purity and simplicity, reminding us that God’s love is not earned but freely given.

✨ Closing Invocation

Through the merits of Thy precious blood and Thy Holy Face, O Jesus, grant us our petition: Pardon and Mercy.
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.
Saint Joseph, pray for us.
Saints Peter and Paul, pray for us.