Simon of Cyrene (May 12) also suitable for Passiontide

1 O Jesus scourged, derided, mocked,
up Calvary’s hill did tread;
But under load of splint’ry wood
He fell upon his head.

2 The soldiers spat upon His face,
His raiment did they strip;
And thus exposed to common gaze
He suffered ’neath the whip.

3 His strength gave out, He tried in vain,
Golgotha to ascend;
And so it was that Simon blest
Became our Lord’s dear friend.

4 He came up from Cyrene
When the soldiers him did seize;
He was compelled to bear the cross
and so Jesus did please.

5 His muscular frame bore Christ’s own Tree
Along the Sacred Way;
“O Jesus, who will die for me
I’ll follow Thee alway.”

6 O Simon, joyful crucifer
Before the throne of grace:
Pray that we who shall bear His cross
May see Him face to face.