Dear Family of God,

Why do we display the crucified Christ instead of resurrected Christ in our Churches?

Suffering is not an end in itself; it is a pathway to glory. Jesus has taken on the full weight of human suffering and transformed it, giving it life-giving value. This is why we willingly display the crucifix instead of rejecting it.

When we look at the crucifix, we are reminded that God does not see suffering as something to be avoided at all costs. He knows how to bring good out of suffering.

Saint Paul understands that the way of the cross is the way to glory. He has experienced it himself. That is why he can so strongly encourage us to embrace this way: “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice.” Paul knows that the idea of sacrifice—which is voluntary suffering—does not fit the world’s standards. Rather, we are called to “be transformed by the renewal of our minds” so that we “may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.”

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: “The way of perfection passes by way of the Cross. There is no holiness without renunciation and spiritual battle. Spiritual progress entails self-discipline and mortification that gradually lead to living in peace and joy of the beatitudes.” (CCC 2015).

May Our Mother of Sorrows teach us to glorify God by imitating Jesus.

Yours in Christ through Mary Immaculate.

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