The Celebration of the Lord’s Passion today at 3pm, for The Stations of the Cross at 7.30pm, Taizé Prayer around the cross at 9pm, 2022 April 15th.

By Father Michael McGrath

Stabat Mater—A Mother Stands

Mary stands beneath the cross. The gospels do not picture her buckled down with grief. No. She stands. To stand is a gesture of strength. It is the strength of one keeping vigil, holding back the tears yet knowing there’ll be time later for crying. It is the strength of solidarity that offers the One suffering courage to face the next step and let go.

As Jesus breathes HIs last, imagine Mary’s grief then. And imagine being Mary. Imagine her standing with her children in that Ukrainian city that bears her name, Mariupol. Imagine Mary’s strengthening presence around every hospital bed. Imagine her caring hands as the hands of every doctor, nurse and family member and carer who walks the way of the cross and stands offering strength and finally gently caresses the wounded Son of God, her child.

Hail Mary, full of grace. Stabat Mater Dolorosa – At the cross her station keeping stood the mournful Mother weeping, close to Jesus to the last.