Stradalna Mati -- In Honor of Our Lady of Sorrows

[Dawn Marie]

Originally posted by Cathleen

 

The following is a traditional Ukrainian hymn, sung during Lent, in honor of the Sorrowful Mother.  The words don't quite do justice to hearing the hymn sung.   It is very mournful and moving.

 

"Beneath the Cross, there stood a Mother crying,

 Shedding tears of sorrow while Her Son was dying.

'O Son, my Son,

For what great transgression

Must Thou bear this trying

Hour of oppression

On the Cross.

 

With my bitter tears how lovingly I bathed Thee,

When Thou were a mere Child from what foes I saved Thee.

But now Thou leaves me

And my heart so grieves me

For my dearest Son

No longer will I see Thee

O my Son.

 

O My God, most gracious,  hear my supplication:

Grant to me the strength to bear this tribulation.

This I implore Thee,

How much only I know

As I offer Thee

my Son Who is reviled so

On the Cross.' "