On September 15, we celebrate the Feast of the Seven Sorrows of Our Lady. On this day, we remember the sorrowful events in Our Lady’s life, when she suffered greatly, especially during the passion and death of her beloved son Jesus Christ.
In 1233, the Servite Order, or Order of the Servants of Mary, in France, made Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows their principal devotion. It was later popularized by St. Bridget of Sweden in the 14th century. We meditate on these 7 key sorrowful events:
- The Prophecy of Simeon
- The Flight into Egypt
- The Loss of Jesus in the Temple
- Mary’s Meeting Jesus on the Way to Calvary
- Jesus’ Death on the Cross
- Mary Receives the Dead Body of Jesus in Her Arms
- Jesus is Placed in the Tomb
Each of the sorrows in Mary’s life pierced her heart with profound grief. Meditating on the Gospel passages that are central to each sorrow brings us closer to Our Lady, and to Jesus.
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Icon of Our Lady of CzestochowaThis Byzantine-style Icon has been located in the Jasna Gora Monastery in Czestochowa, Poland, since 1382. Legend claims that Luke painted it on a table top, built by St. Joseph himself. In 1430, the painting was damaged by thieves, and scars were left on Mary’s face. This icon is associated with miraculous events, and is a national symbol of Mary’s being crowned Queen of Poland. For centuries, incense and candles have been burned in the Icon’s presence, hence the darkening of this image also known as The Black Madonna. |
Crucifixion of Our LordThe image of Jesus Christ on the cross reminds us of the suffering endured by Our Lord for our salvation. The crucifix calls us to reflect on the agony He willingly accepted, and on His sacrifice for mankind. This 12" crucifix is made of reconstituted stone from the monasteries in France. "For Jews demand signs and Greeks desire wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles" (Corinthians 1:22-23). |
Our Lady of SorrowsMary is depicted, in this statue, with seven swords, or dolors, piercing her Immaculate Heart. The Traditional Catholic devotion of meditating on Our Lady’s Seven Sorrows, teaches us to console Mary’s sorrowful heart. We also unite our own suffering to hers, and Mary, in her love, consoles us. It becomes possible not to despair, but to commune with Mary’s Holy Sorrow, receiving the beautiful graces of consolation and strength. Meditate more easily on Our Lady’s Sorrows with this beautiful statue in your home. |
