The title “Our Lady of Sorrows” is a devotion to the Virgin Mary that focuses on her seven sorrows or dolors, which are events in her life that caused her great suffering and sorrow. The origin of this devotion can be traced back to the Gospels, specifically the Gospels written by St Luke and St John, which mention moments of sorrow in Our Lady’s life.

The Seven Swords of Sorrows

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The role of Our Lady of Sorrows under this title is to provide comfort, solace, and strength in times of suffering and sorrow. She is our compassionate mother who understands our suffering. As her children, she intercedes for us.

Devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows can help us deepen our understanding of the suffering of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, and her role as Co-Redemptix. By focusing on the sorrows of Our Blessed Mother, we are reminded of the price of sin and are encouraged by her and the Holy Spirit to seek forgiveness and repentance.

At the foot of the Cross, Our Lady of Sorrows suffered the intense emotional and spiritual pain of watching her son endure excruciating physical agony and die for the sins of humanity. Sins were committed. Sins that are being committed. Sins that will be committed. Uniting herself to the suffering of her divine Son on the Cross is an unfathomable supreme act of love and sacrifice.

We can pray the Seven Sorrows Rosary to implore her intercession, especially on a Friday. Our Lady promised to come to our assistance in times of trial, suffering, and spiritual warfare, and her intercession for the forgiveness of sins and healing of wounds.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that “Mary’s role in the Church is inseparable from her union with Christ and flows directly from it” (CCC 964).

Exorcists have also spoken about the powerful protection and aid that we can receive through devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows. They often recommend praying to her under this title.

Our Lady of Sorrows has been associated with various apparitions throughout history, including those at La Salette and Kibeho. These apparitions often involve messages of warning, repentance, and the need for prayer and penance.

Overall, devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows is a powerful way for us, as Catholic to connect with Our Lady’s unique role in salvation history and to seek her intercession in times of need. By meditating on her sorrows and seeking her help, we can find comfort, strength, and grace to navigate the challenges and struggles of life. Our Lady of Sorrows will always be a source of hope, compassion, and healing for all who turn to her in prayer and devotion.