A Prayer Before a Crucifix

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A candle or vigil light is lit before the crucifix; with the electric lights turned off, the natural light of a candle aids concentration on the action of prayer. If at all possible, the entire family is present and participates. At the beginning or end, a hymn could well be included—providing a setting that will be cherished in most family groups.

O good and dearest Jesus, I kneel before your face. With all my heart I ask you to place in my heart more faith, hope, and charity. Give me a true sorrow for my sins and a strong will to do better With great sorrow and grief I look upon your five wounds and think about them. Before my eyes are the words that the prophet David said of you, O good Jesus: "They have pierced my hands and feet They have numbered all my bones."