Good Friday Celebration of the Lord's Passion

"Apart from the cross, there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven." - St. Rose of Lima

Good Friday is the only day of the year when there is not a Mass celebrated in the Catholic Church because on this day we commemorate our Lord's sacrifice on the cross. Instead, we observe the day with the liturgy of the word, veneration of the cross, and receiving Communion.

In the face of suffering it can be tempting to look away, but on Good Friday, especially we are invited to not look away. We are invited to reflect on Jesus' suffering. Although this type of reflection is especially suited to Good Friday, it can be a beautiful entry to prayer any time of year. As you reflect on Jesus' suffering, help him carry his cross like Simon of Cyrene; stand watch at the foot of the cross with Mary and John; hang next to him with the good thief; or watch from a distance with Peter and the other disciples. Wherever you are in the scene, let Jesus gaze upon you as you gaze upon him. See all of the sin of humanity throughout history on his shoulders.  See your sin on his shoulders. See how he loves you. See how he doesn't give up. Experience the grief of his mother as he breathes his last. It is your grief too.