# Reflections from the International Congress on the Hearts of Jesus and Mary
*2018-06-11*

> Bill Young shares his experience at the third International Congress honoring the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, describing the liturgy, the powerful moments with St. Pio’s relic, and a special prayer for the sick.

## A Blessed Weekend in Spain

I spent the weekend at the third International Congress honoring the Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Over 5,000 Catholics gathered—many from Hispanic countries such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, and various South‑American nations. Although most of the program was in Spanish, we were provided with real‑time translation earphones, so I could follow every homily and talk. The final Mass on Sunday night was celebrated by a bishop, and the translations made the experience truly joyful.

## The Power of Modern “Pentecost”

The translators reminded me of a new Pentecost: technology, a gift from God, allowing us to hear the Word in any language instantly. I joked that we might soon need no more miracles of tongues because we have these devices. It felt like a door had opened, letting me participate fully in a language I do not speak.

## Encounter with St. Pio’s Heart

One of the most moving moments was receiving a small handkerchief bearing the image of St. Pio of Pietrelcina. When I placed it on the relic—a glass container said to hold his heart—I felt a warm, comforting presence. The handkerchief can be given to the sick, and I hope it brings healing or consolation, just as the woman who touched Jesus’ garment was healed (Luke 8:43‑44).

## Prayer for the Sick and for Oliver

I prayed for a dear friend in Jacksonville who is battling stage‑four cancer, and for a young man named Oliver, whom I met at the congress. I asked that, if it be God’s will, they may experience healing, and that they continue to spread the Good News of Christ, for we are all called to be apostles of the third millennium.

## The Life and Charism of St. Pio

St. Pio (Francisco Forgione) was born 25 May 1887 in Pietrelcina, Italy. From childhood he experienced mystical ecstasies and chose the Capuchin friars at fifteen. Ordained in 1910, he endured severe lung disease, received the stigmata in 1918, and spent his life in prayer, confession, and devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Our Lady. He died on 23 September 1969. His life reminds us that ordinary sinners can be vessels of God’s grace.

## A Chaplet and Closing Prayer

I concluded with the Chaplet of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a devotion St. Pio recommended. I prayed for the sick, especially my friend Annette, and offered the prayer in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, trusting in the mercy of the Sacred Heart.

*Even ordinary believers can become instruments of Christ’s love when we open our hearts to the Holy Spirit and the intercession of the saints.*