The Crowning with Thorns

Pilate asks, "Are You a king?" Jesus answers: "I am a King, but My kingdom is not of this world."

In the praetorium, the soldiers place an old purple robe on Jesus in mockery of His claim to be a king.

They fashion a crown out of thorns, and forcefully press it down upon His head.

In His bound hands they place a reed, as a sceptre, in mockery of His kingship.

Kneeling before Him in derision, they spit on Him, and cry out: "Hail, King of the Jews!"

Taking the reed from His hand they strike Him on the head, driving the thorns more deeply into His scalp.

Pilate brings Jesus before the people, hoping His pitiful sight will soften them: "Behold the man!"

Their response: "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!"

Our Blessed Lord submitted to this terrible humiliation to make reparation for our pride.

Father, by the merits of this painful humiliation, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

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