The Fourth Station: Jesus meets his Mother

V. We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you,
R. because by your holy Cross you have redeemed the world.

A Roman trooper in his scarlet cloak
and crested helmet clatters on ahead
to clear the way, when from the crowds that choke
the street, your Mother steps with falt’ring tread.

What agonising feelings then arose
within your minds, no human words can frame.
The mutual anguish in your faces shows:
the Via Dolorosa earns its name.

Prayer

O HOLY JESUS, by the sorrow which you experienced in this most sorrowful meeting, grant that with you I may truly love your holy Mother.

AND, O MOTHER OF CHRIST, who yourself were overwhelmed with grief, obtain for me by your intercession a frequent and tender remembrance of the Passion of your Son.

Act of contrition

O GOD, we love you with our whole hearts and above all things, and are heartily sorry that we have offended you.  May we never offend you any more.  May we love you without ceasing, and make it our delight to do in all things your most holy will.

Our Father   Hail Mary

V. O Saviour of the world, who by your Cross and precious Blood has redeemed us,
R. save us and help us, we humbly beseech you, O Lord.