Is there a story behind the walls of Notre-Dame des 7 Douleurs? In 1656, Jean Stappaert a Lille citizen donated a house. It stood at the corner of Rue du Plat and Rue de la Vignette. His goal was to create an orphanage for girls. These girls had to be from Lille. They were to be between 5 and 15 years old. He named it Hôpital des sept douleurs meaning Hospital of the Seven Sorrows. This is also known as Notre-Dame des 7 Douleurs.
Antoinette Bourignon the director had other plans. She wanted to turn it into a convent. Also she wanted to ban the founder from entering. She was removed from her post. But she left her entire fortune to the institution when she died. The Maison des orphelines de la presentation Notre-Dame and the Maison des Bonnes Filles were added to it.
The Hôpital Notre-Dame des 7 Douleurs moved in 1884. It relocated to 78 Rue de la Barre. This was the old Maison Noble Famille.
In 1912 the rules changed slightly. Now the orphans had to be between 6 and 12 years old. Eight sisters of Saint Vincent de Paul cared for 60 to 80 girls. The girls attended school and worked at the workshop. A fire broke out in 1954. The girls were moved to Les Bleuets on Rue Boileux. The institution closed its doors in 1964.
Notre-Dame des 7 Douleurs is linked to the seven sorrows of the Virgin Mary. These sorrows are a key part of Catholic tradition. The devotion to the Virgin Mary’s suffering began in the late 11th century. It was especially strong in Mediterranean countries.
The Order of Servites of Mary established the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. This was in 1239 in Florence Italy. The order greatly helped spread the devotion. The seven sorrows highlight Mary’s association with Jesus’ suffering. This is especially true during his Passion.
What are these seven sorrows of Notre-Dame des 7 Douleurs? First she hears Simeon’s prophecy in the Temple. Second she experiences the flight into Egypt. Third she searches for the child Jesus for three days. She finally finds him in the Temple. Fourth she meets Jesus carrying his cross. They exchange a glance as he climbs to Calvary. Fifth she stands silently at the foot of the cross watching Jesus die. Sixth she receives Jesus’ dead body in her arms. Seventh she witnesses Jesus’ burial.
These seven sorrows are commemorated in the Catholic Church. The Church dedicates the entire month of September to it each year. A devotion focuses on meditating on each sorrow. The aim is to honor Mary. Also it expresses compassion for her suffering.
Notre-Dame des 7 Douleurs through its history has seen many changes. From its start as an orphanage to its connection with the Virgin Mary. Its story reflects faith charity and resilience.