A Short Way of The Cross

[As used by the Franciscan Fathers on their missions].

First Station: Jesus is Condemned to Death

0 Jesus So meek and uncomplaining, teach me resignation

Second Station: Jesus Carries His Cross

My Jesus This Cross should be mine, not Thine! My sins crucified thee!

Third Station: Our Lord Falls the First Time

O Jesus! By this first fall, never let me fall into mortal sin.

Fourth Station: Jesus Meets His Mother

O Jesus! May no human however dear, keep me from following the road of the Cross

Fifth Station: Simon, the Cyrenean Helps Jesus Carry His Cross

Simon assisted Thee O Lord; may I with patience suffer all for Thee.

Sixth Station: Veronica Wines the Face of Jesus

Jesus Thou did imprint Thy sacred features upon Veronica’s veil, stamp them also indelibly upon my heart.

Seventh Station: The Second Fall of Jesus

By Thy second fall, preserve me, dear Lord, from relapse into sin.

Eighth Station: Jesus Consoles the Women of Jerusalem

My greatest consolation, O Lord, would be to hear Thee say: “Many sins are forgiven thee, because thou hast loved much.”

Ninth Station: The Third Fall of Jesus

O Jesus! When I am weary upon life’s long journey, be Thou my strength and my perseverance.

Tenth Station: Jesus Is Stripped of His Garments

My soul has been robbed of its robe of innocence; clothe me, dear Jesus, with the garb of penance and contrition.

Eleventh Station: Jesus Is Nailed to the Cross

Thou didst forgive Thy enemies my God, teach me to forgive injuries and forget them.

Twelfth Station: Jesus Dies on the Cross

Thou art dying, my Jesus, but Thy Sacred Heart still throbs with love for Thy sinful children.

Thirteenth Station: Jesus Is Taken Down from the Cross

Receive me into thy arms, O Sorrowful Mother, and obtain for me perfect contrition for my sins.

Fourteenth Station: Jesus Is Laid in the Sepulcher

When I receive Thee into my heart in Holy Communion O Jesus, make it a fit abiding place for Thy adorable Body. Amen.

Catholic Critique