“And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, ‘Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed,’” (Lk. 2:34-35). [1]

As Jesus hung on the Cross, the prophecy of Simeon was fulfilled and Our Lady’s heart was pierced with sorrow. Today, we are asked to contemplate Mary’s role at the foot of the Cross, as she shared with Her Son in His compassion for sinners. As we meditate on her sorrow, may it bring us into the joy that is now available to us through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

The pensive face of the Our Lady of Sorrows icon painted by Sister Mary Hope Sanchez is remarkable, especially for her eyes. Downcast and heavy lidded, the eyes contain shadows of Mary’s grief and the clarity of her acceptance. A traditional icon of Our Lady of Sorrows often shows the sorrows of her life as swords in Our Lady’s body, but this image carries the pain in her face and gestures more subtly.