On September 15, the day after the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, the Church keeps the memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows, honoring Mary as she stood faithfully at the foot of her Son's cross. Devotion to her Seven Sorrows — from Simeon's prophecy to the burial of Jesus — grew through the centuries, and the day is closely tied to the ancient hymn Stabat Mater.
Mary shows us that love does not run from suffering; she stayed, kept watch, and trusted God even when her heart was pierced. For every parent and family who grieves, she is a companion who understands sorrow from the inside and points us toward hope in the Resurrection.
Our Lady of Sorrows, you stood by your Son through his suffering; stay close to all who mourn, and lead us gently to the peace of Jesus. Amen.