What does Mary have to do with Lent?

In this holy season of Lent, does Our Blessed Mother have a significant role?  Is there anything to take note of?  Lent is the time we remember Christ's commitment to his mission, his sacrifice, passion and death.  We are offered the ultimate gift – our Savior's death on a cross to redeem us. 

But, yes, Mary has a significant part.  And although quiet, almost hidden, her part is extremely important.  We find it in the Stations of the Cross, as we enter the Via Dolorosa (the Way of Sorrow). 

Do you know the Seven Sorrows of Mary?  The last four sorrows take place on Good Friday.  And these are what Mary has to do with Lent. . . 

Fourth Sorrow (Station #3) "Jesus meets his Mother."

Mary, once again, is near to her Son. She follows (and accompanies) him as he carries his Cross to Calvary. 

Fifth Sorrow (Station #12) "The Crucifixion."

Mary watches them nail her Son to the Cross.  She shares in his pain with her own agony of spirit and soul.  Then, to her and to John, Jesus says, "Mother behold your son," and "son, behold your Mother."  [The Holy Church has an Immaculate Mother.] 

Sixth Sorrow (Station #13) "Jesus is taken down from the Cross" and laid into the arms of his mother [The Pieta]. 

Seventh Sorrow (Station #14) "Jesus is placed in the tomb."

Mary helps to prepare and anoint his body, remaining with him until the end. 

Most importantly:  Mary was with Jesus, alongside Him, entered into His sufferings with Him; and helped Him to complete His mission on earth. Christ introduced us to our Heavenly Mother, as He entrusted Her to us, and us to Her.

During this Lenten season we invite you to become better acquainted with the Holy Mother of God, our Blessed Mother, Mary.

A good book we recommend to read is “Devotion to the Sorrowful Mother”.  This booklet explains many things about Our Lady’s Sorrows that most Catholics have never even thought about.  Drawing on Sacred Scripture and holy traditions derived from the lives and sayings of the Saints, this booklet outlines the Four Special Favors promised to those devoted to the Sorrows of Mary.  Plus, it lists the Seven Promises made to those who meditate on Our Lady’s Tears and Dolors.  Also included are many prayers to the Sorrowful Mother such as the Stabat Mater, the Litany of the Sorrowful Mother, and seven beautiful prayers to be said while meditating on the Seven Sorrows.