The Way of the Cross consists of fifteen stations designed to help us follow Jesus journey to the cross and his resurrection. They can be used together or individually and more information can be found in the first Way of the Cross podcast or separate introduction. There is an opening greeting, reading, ( you are welcome to pause here for your own private reflection) prayer, and final response. 

Ninth Station: Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem

We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you,

All because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading Sally Ridley

A reading from the Gospel according to Luke.

A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, “Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.” Then they will begin to say to the mountains, “Fall on us”; and to the hills, “Cover us.” For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?’

Luke 23.27-31

Reflection / Meditation

Reflection or meditation may follow.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, the women of Jerusalem wept for you: move us to tears at the plight of the broken in our world. You embraced the pain of Jerusalem, the ‘city of peace’: bless Jerusalem this day and lead it to the path of profound peace. To you, Jesus, the King of peace who wept for the city of peace, be honour and glory with the Father and the Holy Spirit,

now and for ever.

All Amen.

All Holy God, holy and strong, holy and immortal, have mercy upon us.

Artwork This painting depicts the women of Jerusalem and is part of Stations of the Cross created by the congregation of St Patrick's Episcopal church Atlanta, who kindly hosted me for a placement in 2007 whilst I was training. Artist unknown