1. Jesus’ Agony in the Garden — Decision to migrate
Loving God, be with the people of the world who are struggling with the decision to leave home in order to save their lives and the lives of their families. Support them as they step onto the unknown pathway. Comfort their loved ones and give them hope for the future.
2. The Scourging at the pillar — The Journey
Protector God, your children face many perils on their journey. They are often beaten and robbed, stripped and assaulted. Keep them safe, heal their wounds, strengthen their resolve and assure them of your presence at their side.
3. The Crowning with Thorns – Loss of Dignity
Humble God, when your loved ones endure humiliations at the hands of those in power over them, remind them of your own humble heart and inspire them to unite their own sufferings with yours as they journey.
4. The Carrying of the Cross – Bearing the Burden of Others
Compassionate God, our brothers and sisters accept their crosses on behalf of their loved ones. In many ways, like Jesus, they are also carrying the sins of the world. The failure of earth’s citizens to assure a just distribution of earth’s wealth has created the need for people to leave their homelands in search of refuge and sustenance elsewhere. Brother Jesus, rest their crosses on your shoulder.
5. The Crucifixion – Sacrificial Love
God of Hope, if death on the cross had been the end for Jesus, all would be loss. But Jesus died in the hope of resurrection. Migrants set out from their homes and cross through many dangers with no assurance of safety or success. Many die along the way; others are rejected, abused, even imprisoned, when they arrive at their destination. Migrants know this and accept this possibility for the sake of their families. Above all, the journey to safety is that their children may live. And for that there is no alternative to hope. You are their only refuge and homeland.
