The dog days of summer

As we begin the month of August, do you know why it's called the "Dog Days"? To the ancient Greeks and Romans, the “dog days” occurred when the star Sirius appeared to rise just before the sun, in late July. They referred to these days as the hottest time of the year, a period that could bring fever, or even catastrophe. To Catholics August is traditionally dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The physical heart of Mary is venerated (and not adored as the Sacred Heart of Jesus is) because it is united to her person.

On October 31, 1942, Pope Pius XII made a solemn Act of Consecration of the Church and the whole world to the Immaculate Heart. We remember this devotion year-round, but particularly through the month of August. Start the month with the prayer "The Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary".