The Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows
15th September is the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows
This is one of many Marian feast days which occurs throughout the liturgical year. It marks seven particularly sorrowful events in Mary's life, focussing on her experience of them - whereas on the actual days, the focus is on Jesus experience.
The observance was started in the 12th century and was especially promoted by the Cistercian and Servite religious orders. It was originally called "Our Lady of Compassion", highlighting the great love Mary displayed in suffering with her Son. In the 17th century it was called "The Seven Dolors" - referring to the prophesy of Simeon that seven swords would pierce Mary's heart. In recent times, devotion to the Mother of Sorrows was promoted by Padré Pio (Saint Pio of Pietrelcina).
There are many artworks which show Mater Dolorosa (“Mother of Sorrows") - Mary's heart exposed and with one or all seven swords or daggers piercing it.
The Sorrows motivate an understanding of Mary as the loving consoler of people who are themselves touched by various sorrows and afflictions: she knows our pains, because she suffered from Bethlehem to Calvary. She particularly understands the torment of parents, when their own children are suffering.
In some communities, the whole month of September is devoted to meditating on the seven sorrows.
Click here to find a Feastday Liturgy
READINGS
First Reading: 1 Timothy 1:1-2, 12-14 - Paul expresses his gratitude for being strengthened by Christ
Psalm 16 - You are my inheritance, O Lord Keep me, O God, for in you I take refuge / I bless the Lord who counsels me / You will show me the path to life,
Gospel:
Luke 2:33-35 - Simeon meets the child Jesus in the temple, and prophesies the Sorrows through his life.
OR
John 19:25-27 - Mary stands at the foot of the cross as Jesus is dying - Jesus proclaims that John is to take care of her as if his own.
https://www.liturgytools.net/2017/09/hymns-lady-of-sorrows-seven-dolores-of-blessed-virgin-mary-15-september.html