Stations of the Cross Opening Prayer

Priest: (STAND)
Jesus came with his disciples to a country place called Gethsemani, and he said to them, "Sit down here, while I go over yonder and pray." Then he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and he began to be saddened and exceedingly troubled. He said to them, "My soul is sad, even unto death. Wait here and watch with me." He went forward a little, and falling prostrate he prayed, saying, "Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from me; yet not as I will but as you will."
(Matthew 26:36-39)

All: (KNEEL)
Almighty and eternal Father, / accept our prayer of thanksgiving for your Beloved Son, our Saviour and Lord. / As we recall his Sacred Passion / send the Spirit of Christ into our hearts,/we beg You,/ so that whether we pray or work we might do all in union with Christ our Redeemer. / Amen.

All Sing (to the tune of Stabat Mater): (STAND)
Jesus, Lord, condemned, defiled,
May we too be meek and mild
As we tread your holy Way.
May we feel no bitter hatred,
When we too are persecuted,
Left alone to walk with You.