FIFTH STATION
Simon of Cyrene is forced to carry the Cross
V. We adore thee, O Christ, and we bless thee:
R. Because by thy holy Cross thou hast redeemed the world.
[Luke 23.26; Matthew 16.24; Matthew 11.29,30]
Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.
Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
REFLECTION
Those who suffer tribulations, suffering, persecutions, and are despised for the love of God are helping Jesus Christ carry His cross. If they persevere, they will be partakers of His glory in heaven. (St. Paul of the Cross)
All: Holy God, Holy and Mighty, Holy Immortal One, Have mercy upon us.
LET US PRAY
Almighty God, whose beloved Son willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross for our redemption; Give us courage, we beseech thee, to take up our cross and follow him, even Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord. Amen.
V. O Savior of the world, who by thy Cross and Precious Blood hast redeemed us:
R. Save us and help us, we humbly beseech thee, O Lord.
Words on the Word 
The last two verses from Matthew from a man who knew how terrible his death would be never fail to move me.
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Once the Holy Spirit has broken our hard hearts, all that feeling and understanding hits us like a ton of bricks.
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