Returning to the heart
The Living Image: Returning to the Heart, by Anna Burke, is a new publication from Messenger Publications. The author reflects on the meaning of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the context of contemporary faith and spirituality.
Drawing inspiration from Dilexit Nos, the 2024 encyclical of Pope Francis, the book explores the ‘sacred heart’ as a symbol that brings human and divine love together in the person of Jesus Christ. “In contemplating the heart of Jesus, we encounter not just a symbol but a relationship, one that calls us to trust, dialogue, and friendship.” (Dilexit Nos, 51).
Through a series of fifteen reflections, Anna Burke considers different symbolic resonances of the heart — including the cosmic, the authentic, the courageous, and the forgiving heart. These reflections present the Sacred Heart of Jesus as both deeply human and universal, inviting readers to consider its significance across time, culture and personal faith experience.
Each reflection is accompanied by suggested Scripture passages, references to Dilexit Nos, and prompts for further thought. The book is intended as a resource for personal prayer, spiritual reading and group reflection, offering a structured way to engage with the theme of the Sacred Heart in everyday life.
About the Author
Anna Burke is an Irish Sister of Mercy whose work has included teaching, faith development, scripture reflection, school chaplaincy and spiritual writing. Her ministry has taken her from Ireland to the United States, Zambia and South Africa. She has written and published several books on spirituality and reflective faith practice.
Publication Details
Publisher: Messenger Publications
Format: Paperback
Length: 104 pages
ISBN: 9781788127639
Price: €9.95 / £8.95
Publication date: 10 March 2026
For further information, interviews, or review copies, contact Carolanne Henry at Messenger Publications: [email protected] | +353 87 637 6067.
