The iconography reflects a devotion rooted in both doctrinal and mystical traditions. It is based on the words of Righteous Simeon to the Blessed Virgin Mary from the Gospel of Luke (Luke 2:35): “And a sword will pierce your own soul too, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.” In Catholicism, this devotion emerged during the Middle Ages, gradually leading to the establishment of a formal feast day. The celebration was officially introduced in 1944 by Pope Pius XII. The growing popularity of this devotion is also linked to the spread of mystical cults, including those of the Miraculous Medal, Our Lady of Fatima, and Our Lady of Medjugorje.

Icons “The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary”