she desired to die in place of Jesus, or at least with Him! Implore this sorrowful Mother to assist you graciously in the hour of your death.
Prayer
O JESUS! O Mary! I am the cause of the great and manifold pains which pierce your loving hearts. O that my heart also would experience at least some of your sufferings! Mother of sorrows! pray for me that I may be truly sorry for my sins, bear my sufferings patiently in union with thee, and merit to enjoy thy assistance in the hour of my death.
Our Father, etc.; Hail Mary, etc.
V. Lord Jesus, crucified:
R. Have mercy on us!
Fifth Station
Simon of Cyrene Helps Jesus to Carry the Cross
V. We adore Thee. O Christ, and praise Thee:
R. Because by thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world!
MEDITATION
Simon of Cyrene was compelled to assist Jesus in carrying His cross, and Jesus accepted his assistance. How willingly would He also permit you to carry the cross. He calls, but you hear Him not; He invites you. but you decline His invitation. What a reproach it is to bear the cross reluctantly!
