Veronica wipes the face of Jesus

We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You.

Because by Your holy Cross You have redeemed the world.

As Jesus toils along the hill, covered with the sweat of death, a woman makes her way through the crowd and wipes his face with a veil.   The veil retains the “true image” of the sacred countenance.   The woman did what she could to minister to Jesus.   As another woman had anointed the feet of Jesus for his death, Veronica’s anointing of love gives him a moment of relief and clarity to see.

A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; the person who finds one finds a treasure.  A faithful friend is beyond price, no sum can balance his worth.  A faithful friend is a life-saving remedy.  For a   person who fears God behaves accordingly, and his friend will be like himself.  (Sirach 6: 14 – 17)

Let us pray.  Almighty and ever-loving God, we feel Your love and understanding in the consolation and support we receive from one another.  Give us, we beg You, the courage and dedication to sacrifice, serve and suffer with those who are in need, especially the least and most alienated of Your people.  Help us to see Your face amid the mystery of suffering.

Amen.

Processional Song:

Jesus, remember me, when you come into your kingdom!
Jesus, remember me, when you come into your kingdom!

Stations of the Cross Images courtesy of carmelites.net