St. Leonard's Way of the Cross: Thirteenth Station

Jesus is taken from the cross

Most holy mother of my crucified Jesus, you receive him in your lap, and if you do not die of sorrow, if love does not kill you, it is because Jesus does not will it. Two most bitter passions for the sake of my redemption: the Son suffering torments of the body, the mother suffering martyrdom of the heart — both for me.

Infinite mercy of my Jesus, I adore you; most merciful mother of sorrows, I thank you. How cruel my sinfulness has been, executioner of the Son, tyrant of the mother’s heart!

Most holy mother, place a kiss for me upon those wounds, upon that bloody cross. I don’t dare to approach because sin reminds me of my ingratitude. Sorrowful virgin, intercede for me that I may be truly sorry for my sins, and may the power of your protection obtain my repentance, my salvation.

Reading: Matthew 27:57-58; Mark 15:42-45; Luke 28:50-52; John 19:38