Veronica, Laywoman

Matthew’s and Luke’s Gospels tell of the large number of women following Jesus on the Way of the Cross who were grieving over his condemnation. While there is no specific mention of the incident in the Scriptures, Tradition tells us that when Jesus fell, one of the women in the crowd who saw his suffering rushed forward with a veil to wipe his bloody face. This was a simple act perhaps, but it was an indication of the sorrow felt by these women who had been Jesus’ disciples. Jesus’ gift to the woman was the image of his face on the cloth. We know this woman as Veronica. Her love and understanding for Jesus would not allow her to step aside while he was suffering.

Showing compassion for a suffering human being is never out of date. Many in our world today need your help.