Exalt the Cross:

We must exalt the Cross more than ever today in our homes, schools, universities, workplaces and recreational facilities, because the Cross speaks of fidelity unto death. It speaks of the extremity of God’s love, which is the love that we need to sustain our own love—in marriage, in the family, in the Church, in society. The Cross speaks of persevering patience, unconditional forgiveness, limitless compassion.

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Let all know that grace comes after tribulation. Let them know that without the burden of afflictions it is impossible to reach the height of grace. Let them know that the gifts of grace increase as the struggles increase. Let men take care not to stray and be deceived. This is the only true stairway to paradise, and without the cross they can find no road to climb to heaven.

- Saint Rose of Lima (1586-1617)