Our Lady of Sorrows

Yesterday we had the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and today we have the Marian Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows.  One of the sorrows of Mary is listed in the Gospel today; being at the foot of the cross.  The very first sorrow is the Flight into Egypt.

As I was praying about this, I couldn't help but think of the images we are seeing over and over again of those who are fleeing, those who are refugees.  The paper today is full of images of those going onshore in the Greek islands or those who are walking along the railroad tracks trying to get from Hungary into Europe.

I just can't imagine the sorrow that they are undergoing. Can you imagine your family fleeing the country with just what you have on your back and trying to get to a better place?  Perhaps as we observe this memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows, we could just pray the Hail Mary for their intentions; that they may find peace and safety and happiness.

Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou amongst women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Monsignor Daniel Hoye