September is traditionally dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows because the Church celebrates her memorial on Sept. 15—immediately after the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on Sept. 14.
The placement is no accident.
On Sept. 14, the Church lifts up the Cross of Jesus Christ: the instrument of His Passion, but also the sign of His victory over sin and death. The next day, Catholics turn their eyes to Mary, who stood faithfully at the foot of that Cross.
As the Gospel of John tells us:
“Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother…”
—John 19:25
Mary did not run away. She remained with her Son in His suffering.
The Seven Sorrows of Mary
The title “Our Lady of Sorrows” honors the deep suffering Mary endured throughout the life and Passion of Jesus. Traditionally, Catholics meditate on her Seven Sorrows:
The prophecy of Simeon, who told Mary that a sword would pierce her soul.The flight of the Holy Family into Egypt.The loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple for three days.Mary meeting Jesus on the way to Calvary.Mary standing at the foot of the Cross during Jesus’ Crucifixion.Mary receiving Jesus’ body after He was taken down from the Cross.The burial of Jesus.
Her sorrow was
