Published : 2026-01-21

Why is January dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus and how can we honour it?

Starting the year under the sign of faith and divine trust is a strong tradition in the hearts of Christians. The month of January is particularly special because it is dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus, a name that brings salvation, peace and hope.

In this article, we discover the origin of this devotion, its profound spiritual meaning, religious objects to honour it on a daily basis, as well as a powerful prayer to place your year under the protection of Jesus.

1. Why is January the month of the Holy Name of Jesus?

Devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus dates back to the 13th century, but it was in the 15th century, thanks to Saint Bernardine of Siena, that it spread widely. He carried a tablet with the monogram IHS (Jesus Saviour of Mankind) and invited people to venerate this powerful name.

The feast of the Holy Name of Jesus is celebrated on 3 January (the date varies according to the liturgical calendar), and the entire month of January is dedicated to him. It is an invitation to begin the year with Jesus, invoking his Name every day.

2. What is the spiritual meaning of the Name of Jesus?

The word ‘Jesus’ means Yeshua in Hebrew: ‘God saves’. This name is a proclamation of Jesus' mission: to save humanity.

In the Bible, it is said: ‘There is no other name given to men by which we must be saved’ (Acts 4:12). The Holy Name of Jesus is therefore a source of:

spiritual and physical healing
liberation from oppression
inner peace and consolation
protection against evil

Simply repeating His Name is prayer. The presence of Jesus acts in the heart of those who invoke Him.

3. How can we honour the Holy Name of Jesus in our daily lives?

3.1 Focus on religious objects dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Using or offering a religious object helps to anchor this devotion in everyday life. Here is a selection of items available at the Palais du Rosaire:

Multicoloured Disciple of Jesus Rosary
Merciful Jesus Rosary – perfect for understanding the difference between a rosary and a dizainier
Silver Jesus Christ Medal
21cm ivory statue of the Merciful Jesus
Sacred Heart of Jesus LED lamp
Merciful Jesus coin purse
Sacred Heart scented lotion

These objects are concrete ways to evangelise and honour the Name of Jesus in our daily lives.

4. The spiritual power of the Holy Name of Jesus in Christian life

In the Catholic tradition, the Holy Name of Jesus is not just a name: it is a living source of grace. The Church teaches that pronouncing this Name with faith, respect and love opens the heart to God's action. This is why many Christians begin each day by invoking the Holy Name of Jesus.

Throughout history, the saints have reminded us that the Name of Jesus acts as a spiritual weapon in the face of trials. It strengthens us in temptations, sustains us in moments of doubt, and enlightens us in important decisions. To invoke the Holy Name of Jesus is to place oneself voluntarily under His lordship and to recognise His presence in every moment of life.

In daily life, this devotion is expressed through simple gestures: saying the Name of Jesus before making a decision, whispering it in times of distress, or repeating it in the silence of prayer. Many believers also choose to bring the Name of Jesus into their homes through an image, a statue or a dedicated light, as a constant reminder that Jesus is at the centre of their lives.

The Holy Name of Jesus is thus a spiritual refuge, a constant support to move forward with confidence, peace and hope throughout the year.