Cardinal Blase J. Cupich
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
As you enter more deeply into the events of Good Friday through the Way of the Cross, know that Iam united with you in prayer. May your contemplative presence and prayers on the busy streets of downtown touch the hearts of those you encounter with God's love. As you consider what Christ's suffering and death mean for us today, may his example inspire you and his grace fil your hearts.
Despite sin, struggles, and division, he assures us of his presence and emboldens us to persevere in fostering the Kingdom of God and inviting others to join in this mission. Connect to Christ's Passion as you offer prayers and solidarity on behalf of those bearing crosses today, especially the people of Ukraine here and in their war-torn country, as well as immigrants facing hardships and challenges. May our Lord's sacrificial love compel us to respond to those suffering today with compassion, mercy, and generosity. And may the Scriptures, meditations, and reflections deepen your relationship with Christ, your understanding of the Paschal Mystery, and your commitment to sharing with others the peace and hope we experience a s disciples of the Risen Lord.
We are grateful to The Catholic Lay Ecclesial Movement Communion and Liberation for organizing the Way of the Cross, with the support of The Lay Ecclesial Movements and New Communities in the Archdiocese. Special thanks to Bishop Daniel Turley, O.S.A., Father Thomas McCarthy, O.S.A., Father Richie Mercado, O.S.A. and Father Cody Ford, O.S.A. for offering reflections, and to Bishop Jeffrey Grob and Bishop Mark Bartosic for accompanying participants on this solemn journey.
As our Eucharistic Revival continues, may the words of Pope Francis echo in your hearts and minds on Good Friday and throughout the Easter season: "In the Eucharist, we contemplate and worship the God of love. The Lord who breaks no one, yet allows himself to be broken. The Lord who does not demand sacrifices, but sacrifices himself. The Lord who asks nothing but gives everything. In celebrating and experiencing the Eucharist, we too are called to share in this love... Let us break the bread of our lives in compassion and solidarity, so that through us the world may see the grandeur of God's love." [Homily on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ 6/6/21] With prayers and every good wish, Iremain,
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Archbishop of Chicago
