In his Encyclical “Miserentissimus Redemptor” (Reparation to the Sacred Heart) Pope Pius XI was the first Pope, in an Encyclical, to give credence to the term “Holy Hour” – a whole Hour of Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. He encouraged the faithful to spend this “Holy Hour” in reparation for the sins against the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Dec. 11, 1925 – “Quas Primas (Christ The King)” Encyclical
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“The people of each diocese, district or nation, and…the whole world (should come) together to venerate and adore Christ the King hidden under the Sacramental species. Thus by sermons preached at meetings and in churches, by public adoration of the Blessed Sacrament exposed and by solemn processions, men unite in paying homage to Christ, whom God has given them for their King.”
Aug. 5, 1928 – “Miserentissimus Redemptor (On Reparation To The Sacred Heart)” Encyclical
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“When Christ manifested Himself to Margaret Mary, and declared to her the infinitude of His love, at the same time, in the manner of a mourner, He complained that so many and such great injuries were done to Him by ungrateful men. “Behold this Heart”, He said, “which has loved men so much and has loaded them with all benefits, and for this boundless love has had no return but neglect, and contumely, and this often from those who were bound by a debt and duty of more special love”. In order that these faults might be washed away, He then recommended several things to be done, and in particular the following as most pleasing to Himself, namely that men should …make expiatory supplications and prayers, prolonged for a whole hour, which is rightly called a Holy Hour. These pious exercises have been approved by the Church and have also been enriched with copious indulgences.”
May 3, 1932 – “Caritate Christi Compulsi (On The Sacred Heart)” Encyclical
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“Let the faithful hasten in large numbers to the Eucharistic board, hasten to the foot of the altar to adore the Redeemer of the world, under the veils of the Sacrament, that you, Venerable Brethren, will have solemnly exposed that day in all churches, let them pour out to that Merciful Heart that has known all the griefs of the human heart, the fullness of their sorrow, the steadfastness of their faith, the trust of their hope, the ardor of their charity. Let them pray to Him, interposing likewise the powerful patronage of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mediatrix of all graces,…”