Consecration of Religious Communities.
O SACRED Heart of Jesus, whence came those words of truly ineffable love: "Come to Me all you that labor and are burdened, and I will refresh you." Relying upon this promise of Thine infinite tenderness and charity, in the trials and hardships of our times, when the universal Church is attacked in her chief Pastor and in her religious children, we betake ourselves to Thee. We have determined to consecrate to Thee for ever, solemnly and anew, this our house, ourselves, and all that belongs to us. Do Thou graciously look down upon us and accept our vows, that, sealed by Thy grace, they may ever remain firm and unchangeable.
Wherefore, dearest Jesus, our sovereign Lord and Leader, we, although most unworthy members of this (College, Convent, Academy, House, etc., N.N.), yet trusting in Thy help and grace, offer, and consecrate ourselves and our household entirely to Thy most Sacred Heart, and we submit ourselves and all that we have to Thy most holy will.
We call upon our blessed Lady, Thy Virgin Mother, our Founder N., and the whole court of heaven to witness that this is our intention, our desire, and our firm determination to imitate as closely as possible Thy most Sacred Heart in practising the virtues belonging to our state of life, in order that we may promote Thy glory in ourselves, and make some reparation for all the grievous insults offered to Thee.
We, therefore, implore Thee, dearest Jesus, to protect our house, to guard us Thy servants for ever in Thy most Sacred Heart, and to sanctify our labors, our studies, and trials. May we, by Thy grace, advance Thy greater glory, the salvation of souls, and devotion to Thy most Sacred Heart. Amen.
