Our Lady of Sorrows — the Mater Dolorosa — is the Blessed Mother contemplated in her sharing of the sufferings of her Son. This nine-day novena honours the Seven Sorrows of Mary and asks her, who stood faithfully beneath the Cross, to stand by us in our own trials.
How to Pray This Novena
Pray the prayer below once a day for nine consecutive days, calling to mind the Seven Sorrows and holding your intention in your heart.
The Seven Sorrows of Mary
1. The prophecy of Simeon. 2. The flight into Egypt. 3. The loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple. 4. Mary meets Jesus carrying the Cross. 5. The Crucifixion and death of Jesus. 6. Jesus is taken down from the Cross and placed in Mary’s arms. 7. The burial of Jesus.
The Daily Prayer
O most holy and sorrowful Mother, Queen of Martyrs, you stood beneath the Cross as your Son gave his life for us. By the sufferings of your life, and by the sword of sorrow that pierced your Immaculate Heart, look kindly upon me as I kneel before you. Obtain for me true contrition for my sins, patience in my trials, and the grace I now ask (mention your intention).
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 come to you, O Mother of Sorrows; despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
When to Pray This Novena
The novena is traditionally prayed September 7 to September 15, ending on the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows (September 15).
About Our Lady of Sorrows
Devotion to the Sorrows of Mary reaches back to the Middle Ages and was spread especially by the Servite Order. The Church keeps the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows on September 15, the day after the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, uniting Mary’s sorrow to the saving Passion of her Son. Meditating on her sorrows draws us into compassion, trust, and hope.
Related Prayers and Devotions
The Seven Sorrows Chaplet
The Stations of the Cross
Browse Marian Prayers
Sources: Prayers follow traditional devotions to Our Lady of Sorrows. Historical detail on the feast and the Servite tradition of the Seven Sorrows.