September is upon us, and as we look forward to the fall, we also embrace a special time of devotion. The month of September is dedicated to the Seven Sorrows of Mary, a profound and moving devotion that invites us to console the Sorrowful Heart of Mary and unite our sufferings with hers.
“And thy own soul a sword shall pierce, that, out of many hearts, thoughts may be revealed.” - Luke 2:35
The Devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows was given to us by St. Bridget of Sweden (1303–1373). This devotion encourages us to meditate on the seven sorrows that pierced the heart of Mary, our Blessed Mother. By doing so, we receive beautiful graces of consolation and strength.
The Seven Promises of Our Lady of Sorrows
Our Blessed Mother revealed seven promises to St. Bridget of Sweden, promising to bestow seven graces to those who honor her daily by saying seven Hail Marys while meditating on her tears and sorrows:
- “I will grant peace to their families.”
- “They will be enlightened about the divine Mysteries.”
- “I will console them in their pains and I will accompany them in their work.”
- “I will give them as much as they ask for as long as it does not oppose the adorable will of my divine Son or the sanctification of their souls.”
- “I will defend them in their spiritual battles with the infernal enemy and I will protect them at every instant of their lives.”
- “I will visibly help them at the moment of their death—they will see the face of their mother.”
- “I have obtained this grace from my divine Son, that those who propagate this devotion to my tears and dolors will be taken directly from this earthly life to eternal happiness, since all their sins will be forgiven and my Son will be their eternal consolation and joy.”
Understanding Our Connection with Mary
It is easy to think that we have little in common with Our Lady or that she has little in common with us. After all, she was in perfect union with the Will of God, and we are a fallen people. But this is precisely the opposite. She is truly united to us in our sufferings because she is intimately united to Our Lord in His.
We console her with this month’s devotion to the Seven Sorrows (Dolors), and at the same time, she consoles us in our misery here on earth.We all suffer, and we all carry our cross. She is Our Mother—a perfect Mother—and as we honor her, she is consoled.
Let us make time for this beautiful devotion this month of September and continue it throughout the year. It is truly a beautiful example of the communion of saints in the Body of Christ.
Getting Started with the Devotion
If you need help getting started, we have everything you need inside the Ultimate Catholic Bundle. You will find all of the devotions, promises, graces, prayers, checklists, planners, novenas, journal reflection pages, printable wall art, coloring pages, and activities inside the membership area.
Everything is easy to print and download, so you can access what you need each month. Each month is packed full of new tools to easily plan out your devotions.
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