7th Station: Jesus falls the second time

Leader: We praise you, O Christ and we bless you.

All: Because by your holy cross, you have redeemed the world

Reader 1
Saint Jared felt called to become a monk at a famous monastery in Ethiopia. When he first entered the monastic life, he struggled to learn anything, and so eventually he gave up and decided to go back home. On his way home he stopped for a rest beside a tree, and sheltered under its branches. As he was relaxing, he noticed a worm crawling slowly up the bark of the tree. The worm fell down after a few inches and had to begin again. The worm kept on trying and eventually, after the seventh try, the worm made it onto the branches. St Jared took the worm for his example and returned to the monastery. He persevered and went on to produce some of the most famous musical tones, which are sung at the Ethiopian Orthodox Mass today.

Let us pray

Lord we do not know why we fail in so many ways. Teach us by your second fall to persevere in good intentions. May we not be discouraged when trials come our way. Make our whole lives be lived in faithfulness to you, and may our singing give you worthy praise.

All: Suffering for us, you set us free, rising you gave us life. You are the Saviour of the world.

SCIAF

Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund

7th Station: Jesus falls the second time