Lent is a call to follow Jesus. He was driven by the Holy Spirit into the desert to pray, fast, and prepare to give his life for the ransom of many.

He calls each one of us to also pray, fast, and give alms for those in need. This liturgical season is the time of year our Church intentionally grows in these practices and the mysteries of our faith.

As we enter into this penitential season we especially remember the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. That makes these 40 days of Lent a great time to focus on the last seven words of Jesus before he died.

As one way of making a sacrifice for others, you are encouraged to pray the Lenten Chaplet for someone. It is customary to pray it for whoever first comes to mind when you receive the chaplet. Or you may pray for anyone you choose.

Sometime between Holy Thursday and Easter it is recommended you give the Lenten Chaplet to the one for whom you prayed. This is a gesture of charity and brings to closure your intended lenten sacrifice.

For those who do the Lenten Chaplet, you will have carried the cross for someone by recalling the last words of Jesus and offering your prayers as a sacrifice. May God grant you an eternal dip in his ocean of mercy and grace.

Holding the Cross

Sign of the Cross & Apostles Creed

Prayer of Intention
Oh my good Jesus, you are completely holy. Thank you for washing me with your Precious Blood. Please teach me how to pray from my heart to your Heart and grant your blessing to __________, for whom I pray. Then as I remember the last seven words you spoke upon the Cross, through my sorrow, give me hope in your Resurrection. Amen!

Meditate on the last seven words of Christ.
• My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? (Matt 27:46, Mark 15:34)
  Recite the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be on three knots following each meditation.

• Father, forgive them, they know not what they do. (Luke 23:33)

• Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise. (Luke 23:43)

• Father, into your hands I commend my spirit. (Luke 23:46)

• Woman, behold, your son … Behold, your mother. (John 19:26-27)

• I thirst. (John 19:28)

• It is finished. (John 19:30)

Holding the Cross—Say and strike your breast three times.
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on me, a sinner!

Sign of the Cross