THE ROAD TO CALVARY

1. JESUS IS CONDEMNED TO DEATH
Pilot took water and washed his hands before the crowd saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood. It is your concern."
Pause
Yes Lord it is my concern. It is my concern that those with whom I live and work get fair play. When I have decisions to make which affect people's lives, help me to make them with care and understanding.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father...

2. JESUS TAKES UP HIS CROSS
The cross was heavy. The journey, a struggle through narrow and uneven streets with a hostile crowd looking on.
Pause
Jesus, I cannot understand these crosses that come to me.
It's so unfair... but I accept them... Or do I?
Give me some of your courage to carry my cross.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father...

3. JESUS FALLS THE FIRST TIME
It was no wonder that he fell. Jesus had endured so much suffering already.
Pause
Lord, I get down sometimes and I take it out on others. I'm sorry.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father...

4. JESUS MEETS HIS MOTHER
It was now three years since Jesus had left home. Mary had brought him into the world, and cared for him. Now she is with him in his time of need.
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Sometimes to watch the pain of those we love is harder to bear than our own. Mary, help me to see your son in the face of those who suffer.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father...

5. SIMON HELPS JESUS CARRY HIS CROSS
Simon found himself forced to help Jesus carry his cross.
Pause
Lord, Simon met with you in a way he had never expected. We too can be suddenly faced with someone who needs our help. May we never turn away. Bless all those who have been 'Simons' in my life.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father...

6. VERONICA WIPES THE FACE OF JESUS
Veronica was not like Simon, no one asked her to help Jesus. She pushed her way through the crowd and wiped his face with a towel.
Pause
Veronica saw your face Lord, and your face left an impression. What kind of image do I leave with people? Lord, may those I live with and work with see you through me.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father...

7. JESUS FALLS A SECOND TIME
Jesus was being hurried along by the soldiers, and the road was up hill. His strength was failing with every step of the way. He fell.
Pause
Lord, you are always ready to lift us when we fall. May your example teach us to be understanding towards others, to help rather than to judge, to support rather than to condemn.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father...