Tuesday of the 22nd Week | Homily of Rev. Fr. Joenick Territorio

Theme: Biblical Basis of the Sorrows of Mary The Sorrows of Mary, also known as the Seven Dolors of Mary, are events in the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary that caused her great sorrow and suffering. These sorrows are based on biblical events: 1.) The Prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:25-35): Simeon's prophecy that a sword would pierce Mary's heart foreshadowed her future sorrow. 2.) The Flight Into Egypt (Matthew 2:13b-18): Mary and Joseph's escape to Egypt with the infant Jesus to avoid King Herod's massacre of infants. 3.) The Loss of the Child Jesus (Luke 2:41-52): Mary and Joseph's anxiety when they couldn't find the young Jesus in Jerusalem. 4.) Mary Meets Jesus on the Way to Calvary: Mary's encounter with Jesus as He carried the cross to Calvary, witnessing His suffering. 5.) The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus on the Cross (John 19:25-27): The agony of witnessing her son's crucifixion. 6.) Taking Jesus Down from the Cross: Mary's sorrow as she held her lifeless son's body after His crucifixion. 7.) The Burial of Jesus (Matthew 27:57-61): Mary's grief as she witnessed the burial of her son. These sorrows highlight Mary's role in salvation history and her deep compassion for her son, Jesus. Devotion to the Seven Sorrows of Mary is an important aspect of Catholic spirituality, and it reflects the biblical events that shaped her life and her spiritual significance in the Christian faith.