The Carrying of the Cross

One condemned to death by crucifixion is forced to carry the cross to the place of execution. The suffering of Jesus is intense as the cross is laid on His bruised and wounded back and shoulders. Weak and exhausted from loss of blood, lack of food and rest, Jesus falls three times under the cross. Jesus meets His afflicted Mother causing untold anguish in the Hearts of Son and Mother. The countenance of Jesus is disfigured with blood and sweat, with dust and spittle. Veronica wipes His face, leaving on her towel the image of His countenance. Fearing that Jesus might die on the way, the soldiers force Simon of Cyrene to carry the cross behind Jesus. Jesus speaks to weeping women: “Weep not for Me, but for yourselves and your children.” “If anyone is to be My disciple, let him take up his cross and follow Me.” Father, by the merits of this painful journey to Calvary, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Spiritual fruit: Patience

Introduce the Mystery

Announce “The Fourth sorrowful Mystery – The Carrying of the Cross”.

Our Father

Say the Our Father: “Our Father, who art in heaven hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.”

Hail Mary

Say ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Mystery: “Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, Now and at the hour of our death. Amen.”

Glory Be

Say the Glory Be: “Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.”

Oh My Jesus

Say the O My Jesus prayer: “O my Jesus, forgive us our sins. Save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls into heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy. Amen.”