Station 12: Jesus Dies on the Cross
Scripture Passage
It was now about the sixth hour, and. there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And the sun was darkened, and the curtain of the temple was torn in the middle. Jesus cried out with a loud voice and said, “It is finished. Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Then, bowing his head, he died. (Lk 23: 44-46; Jn 19:30b)
Meditation from Fr. Jason Smith, LC
We adore you, O Christ, and praise you, for by your holy cross, you have redeemed the world.
As we contemplate the face of Jesus as he prepares to die, we can use the following recommendations of how to accompany a dying person to guide our prayer:
1–Establish your presence, be at the same eye level; don’t be afraid to touch a dying person: Dying individuals are often starved for human touch.
2–Eliminate distraction. Realize that excessive small talk can be a distraction too.
3–Dying individuals often have little energy: Keep this in mind in the way you speak to and comfort them.
4–Encourage the dying person to express their feelings.
5–Don’t be afraid to ask the person about unfinished business: Is there anything that they would like you to do?
6–Sometimes dying individuals don’t have access to other people. Ask the dying person if there is anyone they would like you to contact.
7–Encourage the dying person to reminisce, especially if you have common memories.
8–Talk with the individual when they wish to talk.
9–Express your regard for the dying individual. Don’t be afraid to express love, and don’t be afraid to say goodbye.
