Third Station – Jesus Falls the First Time

V. We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. (Genuflect)

R. Because, by Your holy Cross, You have redeemed the world. (Rise)

V. Consider this first fall of Jesus under His Cross. Loss of blood from the scourges and crowning with thorns had so weakened him that he could hardly walk, and yet he had to carry this great load upon His shoulders. As the soldiers struck Him cruelly, he fell several times under the heavy cross. (Kneel)

R. My beloved Jesus, it is not the weight of the Cross, but my sins, which have made You suffer so much pain. By the merits of this first fall, save me from falling into mortal sin. I love You, O my Jesus, with all my heart; I am sorry and repent of having offended You. May I never offend You again. Grant that I may love You always; and then do with me as You will. 

(Optional Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be)

O how sad and sore distressed was that Mother, highly blest, of the sole-begotten One