Good Friday Reflection: Behold the Wood of the Cross

On Good Friday, the Church offers no Mass — only a direct encounter with the cross itself. This reflection follows the ancient four-part structure of the Good Friday service: the readings from Hosea and Exodus that frame the Passion in the light of resurrection and sacrifice, John's eyewitness account of Calvary, the Great Intercessions, and the Adoration of the Cross accompanied by the haunting Reproaches — Popule meus, quid feci tibi? (My people, what have I done to you?) Drawing on Saint John Chrysostom's vision of the cross as a trophy of victory and Saint Bonaventure's call to carry it in both mind and flesh, this reflection asks us to stand at the foot of the cross and answer the question it poses.

Visit thedomesticchurch.com for more Catholic content for families and kids.