The Apostle Simon, nicknamed “the zealot” to distinguish him from Simon Peter, is depicted as a young man with the hair colour associated with the Celtic peoples.

JESUS DIES ON THE CROSS

From the sixth hour there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.  Jesus said:  “Father, forgive them; they do not know what they are doing.  Into your hands I commend my spirit.” (Mk 15:33, Lk 23:34, 46)

Saviour of the world, you died as you lived, with a heart close to God and open to everyone.  You have shown us how to live a full life; you have given us a reason to live and a reason to die.  Soften our hearts towards those who make us suffer.  Save us from self-pity and despair.  At the thought of dying we place all our trust in you.

We pause for some quiet moments of prayer, our eyes on “the outstretched arms of Christ Crucified….”

Save us, Saviour of the World, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free.