The Stations of the Cross

VII. Station

Jesus falls the second time

V. We adore Thee O Christ, and praise Thee:

R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world!

Meditation

The suffering Jesus, under the weight of His cross, again falls to the ground; but the cruel executioners do not permit him to rest a moment. Pushing and striking Him, they urge Him onward. It is the frequent repetition of our sins which oppresses Jesus. Witnessing this, how can I continue to sin?

Prayer

O Jesus, Son of David! Have mercy on me! Extend to me Thy gracious hand and support me that I may never fall again into my old sins. From this very moment I will earnestly strive to reform; nevermore will I sin! O Help of the weak, strengthen me with Thy grace, without which I can do nothing, that I may carry out faithfully this my resolution.

Our Father, etc.; Hail Mary, etc.

V. Lord Jesus, crucified:

R. Have mercy on us!

VIII. Station

Jesus meets the weeping women of Jerusalem

V. We adore Thee O Christ, and praise Thee:

R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world!

Meditation

These devoted women, moved by compassion, weep over the suffering Savior. But he turns to them, saying “Weep not for Me Who am innocent, but weep for yourselves and for your children.” Weep thou also; for there is nothing more pleasing to the Lord, and nothing more profitable for thyself, than tears that are shed in contrition for sin.

Prayer

O Jesus! Who will give to my eyes a fountain of tears that day and night I may weep for my sins? I beseech Thee, through Thy bitter and bloody tears, to move my heart by Thy divine grace, so that I may weep all my days over Thy sufferings and still more over their cause, my sins.

Our Father, etc.; Hail Mary, etc.

V. Lord Jesus, crucified:

R. Have mercy on us!

“The Stations of the Cross” from The Catholic Girls Guide by Father Lasance.