Our Lady of Sorrows
A memorial honoring the sorrows of Mary, the Mother of Jesus.
Understanding Our Lady of Sorrows
The memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows, celebrated on September 15, invites us to contemplate the profound suffering that Mary endured throughout her life, especially during the Passion of her Son. This day follows the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, emphasizing the connection between Christ's suffering and Mary's sorrow.
Mary, as the Mother of God, shares in the redemptive suffering of her Son, making her a powerful intercessor for all who experience pain and loss. By reflecting on her sorrows, we learn to embrace our own struggles with hope and faith, knowing that we are never alone in our suffering.
Origins of the Memorial
The devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows has roots in the Middle Ages, with the Servite Order formally establishing the feast in the 13th century. Over time, the Church recognized the importance of Mary's suffering in the context of salvation history, leading to the official memorial being added to the Roman Calendar in 1814.
The Seven Sorrows of Mary, which include the Prophecy of Simeon, the Flight into Egypt, and the Crucifixion, highlight the moments of deep anguish in her life. These sorrows have been depicted in art and prayer, deepening the faithful's understanding of her role in the mystery of Christ.
And a sword will pierce your own soul too.
Luke 2:35Symbols & iconography
- Seven SorrowsRepresented by seven swords piercing Mary's heart, symbolizing her profound grief.
- Heart of MaryOften depicted as a heart surrounded by roses and thorns, signifying love intertwined with suffering.
Customs & traditions
Pray the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows
Families can gather to pray this special rosary, reflecting on each sorrow of Mary.
Create a sorrowful icon
Engage in an art project to create an image or symbol representing Mary’s sorrows.
Share stories of compassion
Discuss experiences of empathy and support within the family, inspired by Mary's example.
Light a candle
Light a candle in memory of loved ones or to symbolize hope in times of sorrow.
About this date
The date of September 15 follows the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, linking the suffering of Christ with the sorrows of His Mother.
Frequently asked
Why do we honor Mary’s sorrows?
Honoring Mary's sorrows helps us understand the depth of her love and the suffering she endured for our salvation.
How can we celebrate this day at home?
Families can pray together, reflect on Mary’s sorrows, and engage in activities that foster compassion.
What is the significance of the Seven Sorrows?
The Seven Sorrows highlight key moments of suffering in Mary's life, inviting us to reflect on our own struggles.
Pray it as a household
Bring the feast into your family’s day
Solua walks your family through the day’s prayer together — a few unhurried minutes, shaped by the season.
Pray Together