OUR LADY OF SORROWS

 

Our Lady of Sorrows is a title of the Blessed Virgin Mary that highlights her profound suffering and grief during the Passion and death of her Son, Jesus Christ. This devotion emphasizes Mary’s role as a co-sufferer with Christ, spiritually united to Him in His suffering for the salvation of the world.

The Seven Sorrows of Mary:

Traditionally, devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows centers on seven specific events in Mary’s life, each marked by deep sorrow:

1. The Prophecy of Simeon
   (Luke 2:25–35) – Simeon tells Mary that a “sword will pierce your soul.”
2. The Flight into Egypt
   (Matthew 2:13–15) – Mary flees with Joseph and Jesus to escape Herod’s massacre.
3. The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple
   (Luke 2:41–50) – Mary and Joseph search for three days before finding Jesus in the temple.
4. Mary Meets Jesus on the Way to Calvary
   (Luke 23:27–31) – Mary encounters Jesus carrying His cross to Golgotha.
5. The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus
   (John 19:25–30) – Mary stands at the foot of the cross, watching her Son die.
6. The Body of Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross
   (Luke 23:50–54) – Mary receives the lifeless body of Jesus in her arms.
7. The Burial of Jesus
   (Luke 23:50–56) – Mary watches as her Son is laid in the tomb.

 

 

Significance:

This devotion invites the faithful to meditate on Mary’s suffering and to draw closer to her compassionate heart. It highlights her strength, love, and unwavering faith amid unimaginable sorrow. She becomes a model for anyone suffering loss, injustice, or pain.

Feast Day:

The Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows is celebrated on September 15, the day after the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, emphasizing her intimate union with Christ’s redemptive suffering.

Symbols:

• A heart pierced by seven swords (one for each sorrow)
• Black or dark blue clothing in artwork
• Standing at the foot of the Cross

 

 

Patronage:

Our Lady of Sorrows is the patroness of those who suffer, especially parents who have lost children, and is also venerated by the Servite Order, which spread her devotion in the 13th century.

This title reveals Mary’s deep empathy and unwavering faith, making her a source of comfort and strength for the suffering throughout history.

16”x20” acrylic on wood.

Prayerfully made by Stephen Hotchkiss. 

If unavailable please inquire about having a similar painting made.