There are times when we can do very little to change what is happening to us. An illness interrupts our plans. A loss leaves us with questions we cannot answer. Someone we love is hurting and we cannot make it better. We want to act, to fix something, to find a way forward. Instead, we find ourselves waiting.
The votive mass of “Jesus Nailed to the Cross” invites us to bring those moments to prayer.
The “Votive Mass,” a Passionist Tradition of Remembrance
This celebration belongs to a long Passionist tradition of pausing on special Fridays of the year to reflect on particular moments of Jesus’ suffering. In 1773, the Holy See granted St. Paul of the Cross’ request for the Passionists to celebrate special Votive Masses honoring the mysteries of the Passion.
These celebrations developed over time, with a specific liturgy of Jesus’ crucifixion and death introduced into the Congregation in 1976. They help us keep the memory of Christ’s Passion alive throughout the year.
Love That Continues
As I reflect on Jesus’ being nailed to the Cross, I find myself thinking about his hands. These were the hands that reached out to people others avoided. They touched the sick, blessed children and broke bread for hungry people. Now those hands are fastened to the wood.
Yet Jesus continues to love. Even from the Cross, he offers mercy and makes room for others.
That is something we need to remember when our bodies begin to collect more and more limitations. We might begin to measure our worth by what we can accomplish, how much we can still contribute or how many people ask us for our help. When we cannot do what we once did, we may wonder what we have left to offer.
The Cross invites us to trust that we are still loved. Our dignity remains. A prayer, a word of kindness or the willingness to receive another person’s care can become a place where God’s love is shared.
Drawing Near to Those Who Suffer
This observance also asks something of those of us who are able to help others. As Passionists, we try to recognize Christ in people who suffer today. That begins with paying attention. Who is living with pain? Who has become isolated? Whose needs have slipped past us because our days are so full?
How do we recognize Christ Crucified today?
We may have something practical to offer: a meal, a ride, help with a bill or placing a needed phone call. We may also need to sit quietly with someone whose sorrow has no easy answer. Being present takes patience. It means allowing another person’s pain to matter to us.
Jesus’ suffering gives us courage to draw near to him, and to others who are suffering. His Resurrection gives us hope that anyone’s suffering and death will never be the final word.
An Invitation to Prayer
Today, I invite you to spend a few quiet minutes before a crucifix. Bring whatever feels heavy in your life. Remember someone who needs your care. Ask Jesus to help you receive his love and carry it into that person’s day.
May the Passion of Jesus Christ be always in our hearts.
