The month of August is traditionally dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Since the 16th Century, Catholic piety has assigned entire months to special devotions. The physical heart of Mary is venerated (and not adored as the Sacred Heart of Jesus is) because it is united to her person and is the seat of her love (especially for her divine Son), virtue and inner life. O Mary Immaculate, inflame our hearts with one ray of the burning love of thy pure heart.