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Our Lady of Sorrows

Discover Our Lady of Sorrows in 2025: history, celebrations, miracles, Bible quotes, prayers & Catholic devotion.

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When is Our Lady of Sorrows Celebrated in 2025

September 15, 2025

Is Our Lady of Sorrows a Holy Day of Obligation

No – not universally; only in some regions (typically in certain European dioceses) is it observed as a Holy Day of Obligation.

Is Our Lady of Sorrows a Fast or Abstinence Day

Neither in the Latin Rite; in some Eastern Catholic traditions, any fasting rules would apply only if it falls within a liturgical fasting period.

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Meaning and History of Our Lady of Sorrows

 

1

The Iconography and Spiritual Meaning

 

Our Lady of Sorrows is often depicted with seven swords piercing her heart, each representing a profound sorrow she endured for her Son. This imagery symbolizes her deep compassion and reminds the faithful that suffering can lead to greater spiritual growth and union with Christ’s sacrifice.

  • Spiritual Reflection: The seven sorrows invite the faithful to meditate on the trials of life and the redemptive value of suffering.
  • Emblem of Compassion: Her image comforts those experiencing pain and loss, offering an example of unwavering faith in the midst of grief.

Meaning of Our Lady of Sorrows

2

Patronages and Devotional Significance

 

Our Lady of Sorrows is a beloved patroness in many parts of the world, celebrated for her tender mercy and care for those who suffer. Her title as “Mater Dolorosa” reinforces the understanding that in our moments of deepest despair, Mary intercedes with great maternal love.

  • Protector of the Afflicted: She is invoked by those facing personal trials, illness, or emotional distress, providing hope and comfort through prayer.
  • Guide in the Journey of Suffering: Many consider her a guide in embracing the challenges of life with dignity, encouraging them to unite personal sorrows with the redemptive passion of Christ.

 

3

Miracles and Divine Intercession

 

Countless accounts recount the miracles attributed to the intercession of Our Lady of Sorrows. Believers share testimonies of inexplicable healings, the easing of unbearable pain, and the transformation of lives through her compassionate aid.

  • Healing Miracles: Numerous faithful have experienced physical and emotional healing during times of severe distress after calling upon her intercession.
  • Spiritual Conversions: Her compassionate influence has led many to turn back to faith, strengthening their commitment to live according to the Gospel in moments of crisis.

Our Lady of Sorrows is a profound symbol of maternal compassion and deep faith. She represents the sorrows of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as she witnessed her Son’s passion and death. In her heart we see the mystery of divine love and mercy, revealing that suffering can lead to hope and redemption. Devotees look to her example to find comfort during times of loss and despair, knowing that in sorrow there is a path to a renewed spirit and deeper trust in God.

Our Lady of Sorrows Prayer

Our Lady of Sorrows Prayer

 

O Our Lady of Sorrows, tender Mother who has known the deepest pains of the human heart, I come before you in humility and trust. In your silence and suffering, you have been a beacon of hope for all who experience grief and loss. I ask you now to intercede for me and for all who are burdened by sorrow, that we may share in the healing compassion of your Son, Jesus Christ.

O sorrowful Mother, help me to understand that in every trial there lies an opportunity for spiritual growth. As you embraced your own suffering with grace, teach me to accept my crosses with faith and love, seeking always the consolation that only God can provide.

  • For peace in moments of despair, may your gentle mercy envelop my heart.
  • For strength during challenges, let your example inspire me to persevere in hope.
  • For comfort in my times of need, may your maternal care lead me closer to the loving embrace of Jesus.

O Mother of sorrows, I entrust my burdens to you. Guide me to the sacred mystery of your Son, and may my life be a reflection of his redemptive love. Grant that in my trials, I may find the courage to unite my sufferings with his, and through them, attain the eternal joy of heaven.

Amen.

 

Our Lady of Sorrows Bible Quotes and Reflection

"

Behold your mother.

"

Jesus, John 19:26-27

At the foot of the Cross, as He spoke these words to His beloved disciple, Jesus entrusted His sorrowful Mother to the care of all believers, uniting her heartache with our own and reminding us that in our moments of trial, we are called to care for one another as a family.

"

And Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart.

"

Luke 2:19

In the quiet of her soul, the Blessed Virgin treasured every word and wonder of God’s plan, reflecting deeply on both the joy and the sorrow woven into the mystery of salvation. In her silent meditation, we find an example of faithful contemplation amid life’s bittersweet moments.

"

And a sword will pierce your own soul.

"

Simeon speaking, Luke 2:35

Spoken by Simeon when He recognized the divine destiny of Mary, this solemn promise encapsulates the profound sorrow that our Lady was to endure. It reminds us that even in divine mysteries, sorrow touches the human heart, and through suffering, profound grace and redemption are revealed.

"

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

"

Psalm 34:18

This verse speaks to the deep comfort that God offers to everyone burdened by pain, including those who share in the sorrows of Our Lady. It is a timeless word of hope, assuring us that in every moment of anguish or despair, our loving Lord draws near to console and heal our wounded hearts.

"

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

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Jesus, Matthew 5:4

In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus promises that mourning will not be met with eternal abandonment. Like Our Lady of Sorrows, who bore her grief with a steadfast hope in God’s mercy, we too are assured that our tears are known by God and that comfort will follow even the deepest sorrow.

FAQs

Discover FAQ answers on Our Lady of Sorrows, reflecting her compassionate legacy and central role in Catholic tradition.

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When is Our Lady of Sorrows celebrated?

 

When is Our Lady of Sorrows celebrated?

 
  • Answer: It is celebrated on September 15th, honoring the deep sorrow Mary endured.
 
Who is Our Lady of Sorrows?

 

Who is Our Lady of Sorrows?

 
  • Answer: She is the Blessed Virgin Mary, revered for sharing in the sufferings of her Son and embodying compassion and mercy.
 
What are the seven sorrows of Mary?

 

What are the seven sorrows of Mary?

 
  • The Prophecy of Simeon: Foretelling the suffering of Jesus.
  • The Flight into Egypt: Escaping the wrath of Herod.
  • The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple: A moment of deep anguish.
  • The Meeting with Jesus on the Way to Calvary: Sharing His heavy burden.
  • The Crucifixion: Witnessing the agony of the cross.
  • The Taking Down of Jesus: Experiencing the sorrow of His departure.
  • The Burial of Jesus: Enduring the pain of separation.
 
How do Catholics honor Our Lady of Sorrows?

 

How do Catholics honor Our Lady of Sorrows?

 
  • Devotions: Through processions, statues, and special chaplets.
  • Mass Celebrations: Liturgical services on her feast day.
  • Reflections: Meditating on her sorrows during the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary.
 
What prayers are offered to Our Lady of Sorrows?

 

What prayers are offered to Our Lady of Sorrows?

 
  • The Rosary: Especially the Sorrowful Mysteries are prayed in her honor.
  • The Litany of the Seven Sorrows: A heartfelt prayer recounting each sorrow.
  • Personal Supplications: Prayers asking for her intercession and comfort.
 

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