Christ, in the form in which he appeared to S. Marguerite-Marie Alacoque, showing the Sacred Heart. Colour process print.

S. Marguerite-Marie Alacoque (1647-1690) was healed of a disabling disorder by a vision of the Blessed Virgin, as a result of which she is the patron saint of polio sufferers. In 1675 she received a revelation from Christ, which included twelve promises to her and to those who practiced a true to devotion to His Sacred Heart. The devotion encountered violent opposition, especially in Jansenist areas, but nevertheless became widespread