Bruised, derided, cursed, defiled

She beheld her tender child,

All with bloody scourges rent;

Seventh Station
Jesus falls the second time.

Invocation
V. We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you.
R. Because by Your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world.

"My soul is sorrowful even unto death . . . and going a little further he fell on the ground and prayed."
Mark 14: 34-35

In spite of the help from Simon, and the comfort offered by Veronica, the energy of Jesus was ebbing away. Again the weight of the cross proved too great a burden for him and he fell. The suffering of this second fall was just one more convincing proof of his love for us all.

Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, we contemplate the exhaustion and pain you must have felt as you fell again beneath the weight of your cross. Forgive our own moral weakness when we fail in the faithful service we owe you, and give us the courage and strength we so badly need to rise and begin anew.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father

Responsory
V. Have mercy on us, O Lord.
R. Have mercy on us.

Jesus Speaks

8th Station