St Catherine of Genoa, the saint of the day, was born into the noble Fieschi family in Genoa, Italy in 1447. She is known for her mystical spiritual journey and for her dedication to serving the sick and the poor, especially the victims of the plague which ravaged Genoa in 1497 and 1501. After an unhappy marriage, which left her isolated and depressed, Catherine underwent a transformative mystical experience at the age of 26 that inspired her to commit herself to the service of her neighbor. She devoted herself to the care of the poor in Genoa. She served as director of the main hospital in Genoa from 1490 to 1496. Throughout her lifetime, she experienced numerous mystical visions and practiced intense penance. She died in 1510. She was canonized in 1731 by Pope Clement XII.
We also celebrate Our Lady of Sorrows today. This feast day commemorates the sorrows that Mary experienced during her lifetime. This feast day comes exactly one month after commemorating the Assumption of Mary on August 15. Traditionally, the Church has recognized 7 sorrows of Mary:
(1) In the flight of Mary and the Holy family into Egypt, they escape Herod’s anger and his attempt to kill Jesus.
(2) In the presentation of Jesus in the Temple, Mary witnesses, the prophecy of Simeon, where she is told that a sword will pierce her heart.
(3) In the finding of Jesus in the Temple, Joseph and Mary lose Jesus in the temple and search for him for three days before they find him.
(4) Mary meets Jesus on his way to calvary as he carries his cross.
(5) Mary stands at the foot of the cross, witnessing his crucifixion. (6) Mary witnesses the disciples removing his body from the cross.
(7) Mary is present at the burial of her son.
In Our Lady of Sorrows, we can see Mary’s love and compassion for her son and for all of humanity, especially those who are suffering and who are going through trials and tribulations. Mary as Jesus’ mother and as our mother can understand our human pain and suffering. The popularity of devotions to Our Lady of Sorrows provides consolation, encouragement, and hope to those who are going through difficulties in life. We unite our prayers with Our Lady of Sorrows today.
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