PODCAST | Embracing the Cross
In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio invites us to reflect upon the cross, particularly as a medium to connect with the Lord. Highlighting the imprisonment and martyrdom of St. Thomas More as an example, Fr. Peter illustrates that when faced with suffering, we might be tempted to discouragement if we are not quick to embrace the cross or delight in it. But he reminds us that although suffering is essential for growing in intimacy with the Lord, as long as we are trying to bear it alone, we will struggle. We need to remind ourselves: “It’s not my cross, it’s his, and he does the heavy lifting.”
In order to grow in our love for the cross, Fr. Peter suggests listening to Jesus’ words when he told his Apostles to “watch and pray.” The Lord is our role model in his suffering and agony, since any cross we are enduring, he also endured. Thus he is our template for suffering; by watching Jesus, our suffering can be lessened and we can grow in deeper unity and intimacy with him through the cross.
“The Cross symbolizes the life of an apostle of Christ, with a strength and a truth that delight both soul and body, though sometimes it is hard, and we can feel its weight.”
St. Josemaria
The Forge, no. 757
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Rev. Peter Armenio
Rev. Peter V. Armenio was ordained a priest of the Prelature of Opus Dei in 1980. He is the author of several books published by Midwest Theological Forum, including Highlights of the Catholic Faith. He also served as President of the St. Josemaria Institute from 2006 to 2012. He has been working in campus ministry for the past 30 years and also preaches recollections and gives spiritual direction in Chicago.
