Simon helps Jesus carry his cross

The 5th of 14 Stations of the Cross—Simon helps Jesus carry his cross. Here we see the first results of this softening, this Conversion of the Centurion. He allows Simon to carry the Cross. Now the saintly woman has returned with a blanket–pink, symbol of Maternal Love. All the fear is gone! This is a true sign of Great Faith – lack of fear! The soldier is not accustomed to this! Children, yes, he can understand them not knowing the consequences of defying The Authority of Rome! But these Adults? These Women? What’s going on here? Even his men are acting out of character when this Nazarene breaks rank and embraces His mother, and a bystander, a WOMAN faints! His own soldier also breaks rank and takes her in his arms in compassion. There is something happening that is not easily understood, and it is beginning to affect him and his men.

NOTE— These original Stations of the Cross were painted for a Catholic church in Puerto Rico.  The artist conceived them with the community in mind and they include many of the spiritual and cultural qualities of Puerto Rico. (Photo by Greger Norrevik)