Just as we departed last night in silence, we gather today silently, continuing our three-day prayer. On the only day of the year when Catholic Mass is not celebrated, at 3:00 PM we begin our Commemoration of the Lord's Passion.
There is a stark simplicity to all we do today: the altar is bare, music is minimal, and our fasting reminds us of the significance of this Friday we call "Good". Two elements of our worship stand out as well.
General Intercessions: There are 10 today, encompassing an ever-widening circle of humanity, and emphasizing by this inclusivity the universal nature and intention of Jesus Christ's saving sacrifice on the cross. The structure of each intention is the same: an introduction of the subject of our prayer, a pause for silent prayer, and then a prayer that collects and summarizes all of our silent prayers into one.
Veneration of the Cross: "This is the wood of the cross, on which hung the Savior of the world."
Awed by the depth of Jesus' love for us, we come forward to show reverence for the symbol of our salvation. As one Body we process with humility and gratitude, offering a touch, bow, kiss or genuflection. By venerating (showing reverence for) the cross, we acknowledge its importance in the story of our salvation; the worship of which we sing is reserved truly for God by whom and in whom our salvation was accomplished.
In the readings today, the Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that Jesus is not "unable to sympathize with our weaknesses" and are encouraged to "approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help".
- As you prepare to approach the font and the altar, for what graces and timely help might God be thanked?
- Where is God's grace still needed?
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