The deep “dolors” or sorrows that come with the cross of Jesus and the sufferings of Mary find comfort in the Resurrection. The feasts of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Sept. 14, and Our Lady of Sorrows, Sept. 15, are a time to remember the agony of Our Lord and the “Seven Sorrows” of His Mother, and to find consolation in the truth that Jesus has conquered the world. Parents can help kids grasp this serious concept in a fun way by offering them seven sour candies with a sweet interior. Feast day crafts and more are at www.catholicicing.com.
Amid the laborious and sorrowful themes of September, there is also great joy. This month the Church celebrates the fruit of a different kind of labor: that of St. Ann, who gave birth to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Feast of the Nativity of Mary is celebrated Sept. 8. Honor her by making a birthday cake (like this blue ombré cake, online at www.catholiccuisine.com) or blueberry muffins (www.thecatholickitchen.com).