Day of Our Lady of Sorrows

The Day of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows venerates the Virgin Mary and commemorates the seven griefs she experienced throughout her life. The aim of this observance is to emphasize Mary's compassionate and merciful nature, connecting her with the sufferings of people across the globe. The Seven Sorrows themselves vary among different Christian denominations but often include events such as the prophecy of Simeon, the flight to Egypt, and the crucifixion of Jesus.

The devotion to Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows traces its origin back to the Middle Ages and is attributed to the Order of the Servants of Mary, a Catholic religious order founded in Italy in 1233. In the European Union, this observance holds particular significance in countries with strong Catholic traditions such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Poland. Originally celebrated on the Friday after the third Sunday of September, the Feast of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows was eventually designated by Pope Pius VII in 1814 as a universal feast in the Catholic Church to be celebrated on September 15th.

In the European Union, the Day of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows is marked by various religious activities and commemorations, including special masses, processions, and prayers dedicated to the Virgin Mary and her role as Co-Redemptrix and Star of Evangelization. Many faithful dedicate acts of penance during this day, while others choose to recite the Chaplet of the Seven Sorrows, praying for peace and an end to suffering worldwide. Catholic schools and organizations in certain EU member states may also participate in activities or events focused on the teachings and significance of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows. In the European Union, the Day of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows is observed on September 15th.