The Catholic Significance of September
The month of September holds a special place in our Catholic devotion. Traditionally, the Church dedicates this month to the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary, reminding us of her deep union with her Son in His suffering. Just as we honored the Immaculate Heart in August, September invites us to reflect more deeply on Mary’s heart pierced with sorrow, and to entrust our own sufferings to her maternal care.
This devotion is beautifully highlighted in the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows on September 15th, where we recall Mary’s steadfast presence at the Cross. By meditating on her Seven Sorrows—from Simeon’s prophecy to the burial of Christ—we are drawn closer to the mystery of redemptive suffering and reminded that no cross is carried alone.
September also brings the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14th, reminding us that the Cross, once an instrument of death, has become for us the sign of salvation. This feast is a powerful companion to Mary’s sorrows, for it shows us the glory that comes through suffering when united to Christ.
The Church also honors several beloved saints during this month, including St. Gregory the Great (September 3), St. John Chrysostom (September 13), St. Padre Pio (September 23), and the Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael (September 29). Each of these holy witnesses helps us enter more deeply into the richness of our Catholic faith.
As the seasons begin to change, September is a month to renew our devotion to the Cross and to Mary, who leads us always to her Son. Let us walk with her, learning to offer our joys and sorrows in union with Christ, trusting that the Lord transforms suffering into new life.
In Christ,
Fr. Joe Connelly