The Way of the Cross
First Station: Jesus is condemned to death
Our Gracious Redeemer, after suffering blows and blasphemies before Annas and Caiphas, after the cruel scourging, insulting contempts and bloody crown of piercing thorns, is unjustly condemned to death.
Leader - We adore
Thee, O Christ, and bless Thee.
All - Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world.
Jesus, you stand all alone before Pilate. Nobody speaks up for you. Nobody
helps defend you. You devoted your entire life to helping others, listening to
the smallest ones, caring for those who were ignored by others. They don't seem
to remember that as they prepare to put you to death.
As a child, sometimes I feel alone. Sometimes I feel that others don't stand up
for me and defend me when I am afraid. Sometimes I don't feel like I am treated
fairly, especially if I am scolded or corrected.
As an adult, sometimes I feel abandoned and afraid as well. Sometimes I too,
feel like I am treated unfairly or blamed for things unfairly. I have a hard
time when people criticize me at home or at work.
Help me be grateful for what you did for me. Help me to accept criticism and
unfairness as you did, and not complain. Help me pray for those who have hurt
me.
My Jesus, often have I signed The death warrant by my sins; save me by Thy death
from that eternal death which I have so often deserved.
Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory Be to the Father....
Leader - Jesus Christ Crucified.
All - Have mercy on Us.
Leader - May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest
in peace.
All - Amen.
Through her heart, His sorrow sharing,
All His bitter anguish bearing,
Now at length the sword had passed