Ed: Early in our marriage, we learned about the Stations of the Cross for Married Couples. This Lent, we are following the Stations, compliments of Worldwide Marriage Encounter Singapore.
Leonor: Stations 3, 7 and 9 are the three times Jesus falls. In our marriage, I fall when Ed asks me what’s wrong and I say “nothing,” but then explode with hurtful comments. I fall when I keep watching TV while Ed is trying to talk to me instead of giving him my full attention. I fall when I forget to thank Ed for all he does around the house. Jesus inspires me to get back up and continue trying to be a better person.
Ed: In Station 4, Jesus meets his mother. This station reminds me of how Mary supported Jesus, like my mom supported me through the challenges in my life. When my mom passed away a few years ago, it naturally hit me hard. I didn’t care for myself very well; I ate poorly and gained weight. I am very fortunate that Leonor was there to support me. In Station 5, Veronica wipes Jesus’ face, and in Station 6, Simon carries the cross. These are examples of how Jesus accepted the help of others. Although my burdens are nowhere near what Christ endured, he shows me that I don’t have to pretend to be strong. I can let Leonor see my hurt and my pain. He shows me that it’s OK to accept Leonor’s help with this burden. I don’t have to carry this sadness alone.
Leonor: Praying these stations, we grow closer to Jesus and each other as we experience his ultimate example of unconditional love for us on his journey to the cross.
Leonor “Leo” and Ed Rivera are members of the local Worldwide Marriage Encounter community. To learn more about Worldwide Marriage Encounter, visit www.wwme.org. The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend is April 17-19 at Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua. To read more of Leo and Ed’s blogs, visit https://catholiccourier.com/viewpoints/blogs/to-have-and-to-hold.
Tags: Catholic Marriage
