On June 11, 2026, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The parishes of the Diocese of Gaylord are invited to join Bishop Walsh in prayer for the United States throughout the semiquincentennial year of our nation.
FROM THE USCCB:
- Consecrating the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
On June 11, 2026, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Parishes around the country are encouraged to join the bishops in consecrating our nation to the Sacred Heart. The USCCB has published a number of resources for parishes to participate in this consecration locally; including a ritual text for local liturgical celebrations, a novena, and a prayer to the Sacred Heart for our nation. Also available are a number of written reflections and video series from bishops and Catholic voices and more.
Local Celebrations of the Consecration of the United States of America to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus 2026
- 250 Hours of Adoration and 250 Works of Mercy
All Catholics are encouraged to join the bishops in praying for the unity and healing of our country. One opportunity for parishes and individuals to participate is by contributing to a collective 250 Hours of Adoration and 250 Works of Mercy. The attached resource provides a number of ideas for how to successfully implement these initiatives on the local level.
America 250 Catholic Resources
- National Eucharistic Pilgrimage: One Nation Under God
The National Eucharistic Revival team is organizing another nation-wide Eucharistic pilgrimage to celebrate the founding of our nation. While the pilgrimage will not cross through our diocese, there are a number of ways to get involved, including pledging prayers for the pilgrims and participating in a video lecture series.
FROM THE DIOCESE OF GAYLORD:
- God Bless America Masses
Starting in July, Bishop Walsh will offer Masses in each of our vicariates both in thanksgiving for the many blessings our nation has already received from God and in supplication that those blessings continue to increase. The attached memo from the Office of Faith Formation includes a full schedule of these Masses. Additional promotional materials will be provided by the Office of Communications in the near future.
