THE PIETA:

In Christian art a Pieta (Italian term for pity) depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the dead body of Jesus. As such, it is a particular form of the Lamentation of Christ, a scene from the Passion of Christ found in cycles of the Life of Christ. Mary is the comfort or consolation of the afflicted.

Interestingly, Mary does not directly touch the body of her Son, Jesus. Her right arm gently caresses His flesh through a cloth. This signifies, the sacredness of His suffering and the divinity of His form. Mary is not devastated by the death of her son; but rather, serenely and gracefully accepts it for the salvation of the world.

Mary’s meditation:

“The crowd had gone, the noise had stopped, I stood quietly with one of Jesus' friends and looked up at the dead body of our Saviour, my Son. Then two men took the body from the cross and placed it in my arms. A deep sorrow engulfed

my being . Yet, I also felt deep joy. Life had ended cruelly for my son, but it had also brought life to all of us. I knew this had to be,and i prayed silently.”

Prayer:

Lord, Your Passion has ended . Yet,it still goes on whenever I choose sin over you. I have done my part in your crucifixion and now, my Saviour, I beg your forgiveness with all my heart. Help me to live a life worthy of You and Your mother. 

Amen.

It is recommended to meditatively pray the “ Our Lady of Sorrows ” rosary at the Pieta.