Simon of Cyrene Helps Jesus Carry the Cross

       O Most Loving Jesus, I offer Thee the acts of adoration, of praise, of union and of supplication which Thy Holy Mother offered Thee in this Station.

      Jesus has borne the weight of our sins, He had paid all our debts. Yet He has left us a share in this work of redeeming souls, as well as in His sufferings. That is what he gives us to understand by calling the Cyrenean to help Him carry the Cross.

      Child of the Queen of Martyrs, be convinced of this truth, that wherever you go, you will find trials and afflictions. Now is the time for you to suffer, and that is your only way to reach Heaven. But see how good your Saviour is! He has given you His Mother, and to you who have consecrated yourself to Her, She is more particularly a Mother who will be your stay and your consolation in this vale of tears. Who, indeed, carries the His Cross most easily and with most merit, if not the faithful servant of this sweet Mother?

      O heavenly Comforter of the children of God, be always my tender and merciful Cyrenean. Thou knowest my weakness; be my help in carrying my Cross and my support in the cares and trials of this life. Thou, whose love extends to all creatures, be the help also of those who have charge of others - priests, teachers, magistrates, superiors and leaders, and pour out on them in abundance, the spirit of zeal and devotedness in the discharge of their duties.

      Holy Mother, pierce me through,In my heart each wound renew, Of my Saviour Crucified!