The Fifth Station: Simon Helps to Carry His Cross – reflections by Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, CSC
Narrator: The cross now becomes too much for Jesus to bear, so the soldiers grab a bystander, Simon, to help Jesus carry His cross. While Jesus caries the more significant burden, Simon plays an important part in the Passion of our Lord. In helping Jesus carry this wood, Simon serves as an example for all who contemplate this awkward scene. We, too, are called to be Simon, to help our brothers and sisters carry the weight of their hardships and difficulties. Simon was transformed by this unexpected experience. We, too, will be transformed by our acts of good will to all who are in need of our assistance.
All: Afflicted Lord, help us to notice the needs of others and assist those heavily burdened in this world. Give us the determination to seek out those in trouble and assist them with our time, talent, and treasure. May we give freely, expecting nothing in return except to be enriched by your abundant grace and peace. O Christ, You are the Savior of the world. Amen.
