The Memorial of the Most Holy Name of Jesus

The Memorial of the Most Holy Name of Jesus is observed to honor the power and glory of the Name of Jesus. The Angel Gabriel, at Annunciation, revealed the name to Mary (Luke 1:31), and later to Joseph (Matthew 1:21). Etymologically, the name “Jesus” comes from Hebrew roots and literally means “the Lord is salvation”. 

The Holy Name is denoted by the Christogram, using the first three letters of the Greek name of Jesus, (ΙΗΣ: “iota-eta-sigma’). In English, it becomes “IHS” and is interpreted as ‘Iesus Hominum Salvator’, which means “Jesus, Savior of men”.

This devotion is deeply rooted in the Bible. Jesus Himself says: “If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:14). Acts of the Apostles also reminds us: “There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12). St. Bernard, St. Bernardine of Siena, and St. John Capistrano promoted the devotion during their lifetime, and it was extended to the whole Church in 1727. Traditionally, the entire month of January is dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus.

Lord, may we have a deeper love and reverence for Your most Holy Name. Let all people come to know that there is salvation only in Your name. Amen.

Prepared and updated by:

Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,

Penampang, Sabah Malaysia.