On the Passion of the Saviour

By Saint Ephraim the Syrian

I am afraid to speak

and touch with my tongue

this fearful narrative

concerning the Saviour.

For truly it is fearful

to narrate all this.

St. Ephraim the Syrian on the Holy Cross

"The Cross abolished idolatrous adulation, enlightened the whole universe, gathered all the nations into one Church and united them with love. The Cross is the resurrection of the dead. The Cross is the hope of Christians. The Cross is the staff for the lame. The Cross is comfort for the poor. The Cross is the deposing of the proud. The Cross is the hope of those who despair. The Cross is food for the sailors. The Cross is haven for the bestormed. The Cross is the father for orphans. The Cross is comfort for those who mourn. The Cross is the protector of children. The Cross is the glory of men. The Cross is the crown of elders. The Cross is light for those sitting in darkness.