Devotion to Our Lady of Seven Sorrows

The devotion to the Seven Sorrows of Mary is a way to understand the suffering that Mary endured because she was the Mother of Jesus. By reciting the devotional prayers, Catholics not only become aware of Mary's sorrows but they also relive the Passion of Jesus, her Son. By paying homage to Mary, believers honor Jesus.

Prayers to Our Lady of Sorrows

† St. Bonaventure wrote the following: O sorrowful Virgin, unite me at least to the humiliations and wounds of thy Son, so that both He and thee may find comfort in having someone sharing thy sufferings. Oh, how happy I would be if I could do this! For is there perhaps anything greater, sweeter, or more advantageous for a person? Why dost thou not grant me what I ask? If I have offended thee, be just and pierce my heart. If I have been faithful to thee, leave me not without a reward: give me thy sorrows.

† St. Alphonsus de Ligurori wrote the following: O afflicted Virgin, O soul great in virtues, as in sorrows, both the one and the other spring from that great fire burning in thy heart for God, the only love of thy heart! Mother, have pity on me, who has not loved God, and who has so greatly offended Him. Thy sorrows, it is true, assure me of pardon, but that is not sufficient. I wish to love God. Who could obtain for me that grace if not thee, who are the Mother of holy love! O Mary, Thou consolest everyone; favor me also, with thy consolations. Amen
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Roman Catholics Commit Themselves to the Mother of Sorrows

By venerating the Seven Sorrows of Mary, Catholics are continuing her work on earth. They commit themselves to pray for sinners and follow God's commands. Praying to Our Lady of Seven Sorrows is a way to become united with Jesus through the intercession of His Mother.

Many Catholics display paintings and statues of Our Lady of Seven Sorrows in their homes, praying to her as a family. It is also traditional to wear the Seven Sorrows scapular, Our Lady of Seven Sorrows necklace, and all other types of Our Lady of Seven Sorrows jewelry as a reminder of her earthly sacrifice and of the sacrifices all people must make to follow the way of Christ.