Dear Parishioners of Mary Immaculate and St. Rose,

As we begin the season of Lent, I thought it might be a good subject to reflect upon the seven dolors (sorrows) of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This devotion is a series of meditations involving events in the life of Jesus which brought sorrow to the Blessed Virgin. There is a chaplet that is similar to a rosary which is used to pray and meditate on the seven dolors.

The first of these events is the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. One might object and say, But this is one of the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary! That is very true, but just as in our lives, joy and sorrow walk often hand in hand. Presenting Jesus to the Lord was indeed a joyful event. The young family of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus were filled with joy on this happy occasion. They have come giving thanks to God for the gift of a healthy child. They are eager to dedicate their son to God. They are holy, pious people and this is a great day.

Then Simeon appears on the scene and he and Anna are part of the joyful celebration. They are grateful to see the Holy One of God, as has been promised to them. Simeon begins to sing his joyful song and then a prophecy follows. . .

This child is destined to be the downfall and rise of many in Israel, a sign that will be opposed -- and you yourself shall be pierced with a sword. . .                                                                                                                        (Lk 2:34,35)

It is a prophecy of great promise and great sorrow. This is a reminder to this joyous couple that their child is unlike any other. They know that already, but they dared to be lulled into the normal events of life. This event puts forth the purpose for which Jesus was born into the world. 

Mary has a more pure trust of God than any other person since the creation of Adam and Eve. It is often said in Scripture that Mary pondered on these things in her heart. In other words, she brought them to prayer. She trusted in God. And over and over she proclaims that she is the handmaid of the Lord and she will do His will.

Mary suffers with Jesus, not through any fault, but through love. Her sorrow is not a penance for her sins, but a sacrifice for the sins of us all. The reflection on the sorrows of Mary lead, not to despair, but to the joy of Jesus triumphant over sin and death!

Msgr. Cox
 
Simeon in the Temple, Gerbrand van den Eeckhout (1672)