Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows

Today, we celebrate the feast of the Blessed Mother receiving the prophecy of Simeon.

"Your own soul a sword shall pierce." (Luke 2:34-35)

As we read this, we pause for a breath. How many mothers today are experiencing a sword of sorrow piercing their hearts? I think of the mothers separated from their children at the border. I think of mothers whose children are lost in habits of various forms of addiction. I think of mothers who hold their dying or dead child in their arms--children who have incurable diseases or have been victims of violence. All of these are sorrowing mothers.

May the Blessed Mother stand with them and support them through her intercession in their hour of need.

Mother most sorrowful, hear our plea. Obtain from your Son, Jesus, the graces we need. Hold our hands as we too pray, "Here I am, Lord, I come to do your will." Amen.

Written by Sister Anne Marie Schreiner, D.C.