Seven Sorrows Rosary: How to Pray It, Mysteries and Promises
The Seven Sorrows Rosary — also called the Servite Rosary — walks with Our Lady through her seven chief sufferings. It is one of the most moving Marian devotions in the Catholic Church.
The Seven Sorrows Rosary (Servite Rosary) meditates on seven sorrows of Mary — from Simeon's prophecy to the burial of Christ. Each sorrow has seven Hail Marys; the devotion was promoted by the Servite order and grants special graces for compassion toward Mary and her Son.
The Seven Sorrows of Mary
- The prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:34-35)
- The flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-21)
- The loss of the Child Jesus for three days (Luke 2:41-50)
- Mary meets Jesus carrying the cross
- The crucifixion and death of Jesus (John 19:25-30)
- Mary receives the body of Jesus
- The burial of Jesus
How the Chaplet Is Structured
The Seven Sorrows Rosary uses seven groups of seven beads (seven Hail Marys per sorrow). Between each group, you meditate on the next sorrow and often pray an Our Father. Many chaplets sold for this devotion arrange the beads in seven sets of seven.
How to Pray It (Simple Outline)
- Begin with the Sign of the Cross.
- Optional introductory prayers (some guides begin with an Act of Contrition or Creed).
- For each of the seven sorrows: announce the sorrow, pray one Our Father, then seven Hail Marys while meditating on that sorrow.
- After the seventh group, pray three Hail Marys in honor of Our Lady's tears, and conclude with the Sign of the Cross or a closing prayer from your booklet.
This devotion is approved and encouraged in the Church. It deepens compassion for Christ's Passion and love for Mary, who stood faithfully at the foot of the cross.
When to Pray the Seven Sorrows
- September 15 — Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows.
- Fridays in Lent or any Friday you want to unite with Christ's Passion.
- When consoling someone in grief or walking through your own suffering.