Devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows:
The month of September is dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, one of many titles given to the Blessed Virgin Mary as she suffered alongside Christ during his passion. This title is derived from Simeon’s prophecy during Jesus’ presentation at the Temple in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 2.
“As the child’s father and mother were wondering at the things that were being said about him, 34 Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Look, he is destined for the fall and for the rise of many in Israel, destined to be a sign that is opposed and a sword will pierce your soul”
There are many churches and shrines dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows. You can find some of them here.
During September, Catholics can pray the Seven Sorrows Rosary, meditating on the pains of Jesus through the eyes of Our Lady. This devotion dates back to the 14th century when the Blessed Virgin Mary, as Our Lady of Sorrows, appeared to Saint Bridget of Sweden and revealed this rosary prayer to her. It is prayed similarly to the rosary, but instead of meditating on five mysteries, you meditate on the seven sorrows. And instead of praying 10 Hail Marys in between each mystery, you pray seven Hail Marys in between each sorrow.
The Seven Sorrows of Mary:
The First Sorrow: When Mary and Joseph present the infant Jesus in the temple, Simeon predicts that a “sword” (of sorrow) will pierce Mary’s soul.
The Second Sorrow: The flight into Egypt When King Herod orders the death of all male children age two or younger, Mary and Joseph flee to Egypt with the infant Jesus.
The Third Sorrow: The Child Jesus Lost in the Temple
The Fourth Sorrow: Mary meets Jesus carrying the cross
The Fifth Sorrow: Mary at the foot of the cross
The Sixth Sorrow: Mary receives the body of Jesus
The Seventh Sorrow: Mary witnesses the burial of Jesus