Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Good Shepherd)

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Porto > Valongo > Ermesinde > Saibreiras

Location

Situated in Largo das Oliveiras, within the Saibreiras urbanization, in Ermesinde, Valongo municipality, this church is integrated into an urban environment, yet offers a point of reference and tranquility in the locality. Its centralized position makes it easily accessible, inviting visitors for a visit and contemplation.

The Legacy of a Devotion

The history of the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is deeply linked to the figure of Sister Mary of the Divine Heart (Countess Droste zu Vischering), a nun who exerted great influence in the recognition of devotion to the Sacred Heart. It was from her mystical revelations that the idea to build this temple emerged, with the purpose of being a "place of reparation" and, simultaneously, a "place of graces", intended to bring benefits to the local community and the clergy. The original intention to build the church in Porto was interrupted, and the previous project demolished at the beginning of the 20th century. However, the desire to erect this place of worship was realized in Ermesinde, with the construction of the current building between 1957 and 1966, culminating in its consecration in 1972.

Architecture and Pilgrimage Site

The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Ermesinde stands out for its modernist architecture, which is distinguished by the lines and volumes that compose the building. Besides being a Catholic temple, the church holds the status of a sanctuary, being a place of great spiritual importance and pilgrimage. Inside, visitors will find the tomb-reliquary of Blessed Sister Mary of the Divine Heart, the nun who was beatified in 1975 by Pope Paul VI. This element confers a particular significance to the site, attracting those seeking a deeper connection to the life and work of this religious figure.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt