V. We adore thee, O Christ, and we bless thee.
R. Because by thy Holy Cross thou hast redeemed the world.

O ALL ye that pass by the way, behold and see if there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow. Mine eyes have failed with weeping; my whole being is troubled, and my strength is poured out upon the earth, as I behold the cruel death of my Son, for the enemy hath prevailed against him. Call me not Naomi [that is, pleasant] but call me Mara [that is, bitter] for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me.

V. Mine eyes do fail with weeping.
R. My heart within me is desolate.

Let us pray.

O GOD, in whose Passion, according to the prophecy of Simeon, a sword of grief pierced through the well-beloved soul of the glorious Virgin Mother Mary: mercifully grant that we, who devoutly call to mind her sorrows, may obtain the blessed fruit of thy Passion. Who livest and reignest world without end. Amen.

HYMN
Let the Five Wounds penetrate me
Let thy Cross inebriate me
And thy Son's Most Precious Blood!