Our Patroness

Our Lady of Sorrows, depicted as "Mater Dolorosa" (Mother of Sorrows) has been the subject of some key works of Roman Catholic Marian art. In other representations the Virgin Mary is depicted with seven swords in her heart, a reference to the prophecy of Simeon at the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple.

The Catholic Church celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows on September 15, the day after the feast of the Holy Cross to show the close connection between Jesus' Passion and Mary's Sorrows. This advocation has its roots in the Gospel.

Each month of the liturgical year is devoted to a particular Catholic tradition, usually centered on a Feast during that month. As August is the Month of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, September follows as the Month of Our Lady of Sorrows.

Seven Sorrows of Mary

1. The Prophecy of Simeon.

2. The Flight into Egypt.

3. The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem.

4. Mary's meeting Jesus on the Via Dolorosa. 

5. The Crucifixion of Jesus on Mount Calvary.

6. Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross.

7. The Burial of Jesus by Joseph of Arimathea.