Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows
Today we pray with Mary as our mother, who accompanies us as Our Lady of Sorrows. She who bore the suffering of her beloved son being tortured to his death, surely understands any pains and unfairness we experience. The gospel of John paints a powerful image of compassion and tenderness as Jesus is dying. Mary, and the beloved Disciple, John, steadfastly remain at the foot of the cross through Jesus’ suffering and death. Jesus expresses his deep love for them both by giving them to each other as family: “woman, behold your son; “son behold your mother”.
In the stark pain and emptiness I experienced following my father’s unexpected death at a relatively young age, I learned the power of the presence of caring others. I was comforted by gentle gestures and the kindness of those who reached out in concern; of friends willing to be willing to simply be present, and listen to my words or my silence.
Today’s gospel reminds us that our living out Jesus’ mission is not done alone, but rather as a caring community. Our bereavement and immigrant ministries provide such gifts at times of need. It is also fitting that our new groupings of parishes are called ‘families’ as we grow in harmony and support of one another in living out the gospel call. May we ever welcome Mary into our hearts and homes as our mother, Jesus has given his mother to us to companion and teach us how to reach out with compassionate care and to be in greater solidarity with those who are suffering.
-Sr. Leanne Jablonski FMI, Marianist Sisters