Our Lady of Sorrows Novena
This novena honors the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary, meditating on her sufferings united to those of her Son.
Our Lady of Sorrows Novena - Day 1
Our Lady of Sorrows Novena - Day 1
Opening Prayer
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
O Sorrowful and Immaculate Mother, you who stood beneath the Cross sharing in the Passion of your Son, look upon us with compassion. We unite our sufferings with yours and beg your intercession before the throne of mercy.
Simeon's Prophecy (First Sorrow)
"Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, his mother, 'Behold, this child is appointed for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which is spoken against." -- and you yourself a sword will pierce -- so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.'"* — Luke 2:34-35
When Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple for His presentation, the aged prophet Simeon took the child in his arms and praised God. But then he turned to Mary with words that would pierce her heart: a sword of sorrow would pass through her soul.
This was Mary's first sorrow -- not a physical wound but the knowledge that her Son was destined for suffering and that she would share in every moment of His Passion. From that day forward, the shadow of the Cross hung over the Holy Family. Yet Mary did not flee. She embraced her vocation as the Mother of Sorrows, knowing that through suffering, salvation would come to the world.
Prayer
O Sorrowful Mother, the sword of Simeon's prophecy pierced your heart even as you held your newborn Son. Help us to accept the trials God permits in our lives, trusting that He brings good from every sorrow. Grant us the grace we seek (mention your intention), and teach us to offer our suffering united with yours for the salvation of souls.
The Memorare
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Closing Prayer
O God, at whose Passion, according to the prophecy of Simeon, a sword of sorrow pierced through the most sweet soul of the glorious Virgin and Mother Mary, grant that we who commemorate her sorrows with devotion may obtain the blessed fruit of Your Passion. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us.