FIFTH STATION: The Cross is Laid on Simon of CyreneThe Gospel tells us that as the weight of Jesus’ Cross grew, the Roman soldiers compelled a man named Simon to step in and carry the Cross for a time.

As you meditate upon the Fifth Station, consider the various weights placed upon God’s children each day, and the fact that often, others have to help carry the load.  For example, in much of the developing world, the fees for basic primary and secondary education are so great that families have to choose which child, if any, can attend school.  Disproportionately, those who are short-changed are girls, who then stay at home and help their mothers in long days of crushing labor.  These young children bear burdens in place of others in their family, often – like Simon of Cyrene – with very little choice.

To learn more about how school fees and other barriers to education hurt the world’s children – and what can be done to change this reality – visit Global Action for Children, a nationwide coalition of which the Episcopal Church is a member, at http://www.globalactionforchildren.org/.

Image: The Way to Calvary Duccio di Buoninsegna, 1308-11 Tempera on Wood Panel

Officiant:
We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you:
People:
Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Officiant:
As they led Jesus away, they came upon a man of Cyrene, Simon by name, who was coming in from the country, and laid on him the cross to carry it behind Jesus. “If anyone would 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 my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Officiant:
Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me:
People:
Cannot be my disciple.

Officiant:
Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: Bless all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his Name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy; for the love of him who laid down his life for us, your Son our Savior Jesus Christ.

People:
Amen.

All:
Holy God,
Holy and Mighty,
Holy Immortal One,
Have mercy upon us.