Novena to Our Lady of Sorrows
Who is Our Lady of Sorrows?
Our Lady of Sorrows is one of the most powerful and compassionate titles of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This devotion focuses on the seven great sorrows she endured in her life, especially her suffering during the Passion and death of Jesus.
Mary is not only the Mother of God, but also a model for all Christians who suffer, grieve, or carry heavy burdens. Through her sorrows, she draws close to those who hurt—and leads them to hope.
Origins of the Devotion
The devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows began in the 13th century, promoted by the Servite Order (Servants of Mary). These holy men meditated on Mary’s suffering at the foot of the Cross and spread the practice of honoring her Seven Sorrows.
In 1817, Pope Pius VII extended the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows to the entire Church, and it was set for September 15, one day after the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.
What Are the Seven Sorrows?
- The Prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:25–35)
- The Flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13–15)
- The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple (Luke 2:41–50)
- Mary Meets Jesus on the Way to Calvary (Luke 23:27–31)
- The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus (John 19:25–30)
- The Body of Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross (John 19:31–37)
- The Burial of Jesus (Luke 23:50–56)
Why Pray This Novena?
Devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows helps us unite our own suffering to Mary’s—and through her, to Christ’s. By meditating on her sorrows, we receive:
- Strength in times of grief or illness
- Comfort for emotional or spiritual wounds
- Hope for those facing loss, anxiety, or despair
- Intercession for loved ones who are suffering
How to Pray the Novena
This novena can be prayed privately or in community. Each day includes:
- Sign of the Cross
- Introductory Prayer
- Meditation on one of the Seven Sorrows
- Daily Prayer
- Hail Mary (or Seven Hail Marys)
- Closing Prayer
Daily Novena Prayer to Our Lady of Sorrows
Most Sorrowful Mother,
I turn to you in this time of need,
remembering your deep sorrows and faithful love.
You stood by the Cross with courage and hope.Teach me to offer my sufferings for the good of others.
Help me trust that, through pain, God’s grace will shine.I ask you to intercede for me and for all who are suffering.
May your prayers bring us closer to your Son, Jesus. Amen.
You may add a personal intention after the prayer.
Closing Prayer
Mary, Mother of Sorrows,
Your heart was pierced with grief,
yet you never abandoned faith.Pray for us,
that in our own moments of trial and darkness,
we may remain faithful to Christ.Through your intercession,
may we one day rejoice with you in the glory of heaven. Amen.