Dear Friend,  

Monday, March 25, 2024

Reflection by Dianne M. Traflet, J.D., S.T.D.

Last week, as I entered St. Agnes’ Church in Clark, NJ, I realized that I was facing the back of a large, magnificent crucifix over the altar. I was aware that I wanted to move quickly to see the front of the crucifix. I wanted to see the face of Jesus. I was not disappointed. For a brief moment, I could picture myself standing at the foot of the Cross, gazing upon our Savior. Subsequently, I’ve been pondering what it may have been like for someone to frantically search for Jesus on Good Friday, to arrive at Golgotha behind the three crosses—and to not immediately see the face of Jesus.

A Prayer on the Way to Golgotha

I’m desperately trying to find you, my Lord.

I’ve heard you’ve been arrested—could it be?

I have heard incredulous whispers. You’re going to be crucified?

No, no, it cannot be.

Heart racing, I run in the direction of Golgotha.

In the distance, I see three crosses.

As I get closer, I hear shouting.

Then, something much worse:  blood-curdling screams.

I stop in my tracks:  What is happening?

I run faster.

Suddenly the sky becomes pitch dark, but it’s only noon.

In the darkness—I can barely see the crosses, but I trudge in the direction of the noise.

Stumbling, I find my way to Golgotha.

I realize that three men have been crucified.

Please, please, my Lord, not you!

I take a deep breath, and I begin to walk closer to the crosses.

I now hear your voice. I recognize the voice of Love.
Oh, dear Jesus, it is you!

Fearful, I walk around the middle cross, and I look up.

Even in the darkness, I can see your tortured face.

I fall to my knees, crying:  How could we have done this to you?

And then I hear you say: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”  (Lk. 23:34)

Dear Jesus, I am on holy ground, for I am so close to you, my Savior.

 I will stand here in the darkness, and I will not divert my gaze from you.

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Our Prayer this Holy Week: Dear Lord, help us to intensify our search for you. Teach us, please, to make our way to you even in the darkness. May we hear your voice and follow in your direction. Help us to see your face, know your love, and show our love for you. Amen.

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Dianne M. Traflet, J.D., S.T.D., Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Administration and Assistant Professor of Pastoral Theology, earned a J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law, an M.A. in Catholic Theology and Pastoral Ministry from The Institute of Advanced Studies of Catholic Doctrine, St. John's University, and an S.T.L. and an S.T.D. from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (The Angelicum), Rome. Dr. Traflet is a key leader in the Center for Diaconal Formation, and she gives numerous lectures, retreats, and days of recollection, including some specific to wives of deacons and deacon candidates. She is the author of Edith Stein: A Spiritual Portrait (Pauline Media, 2008).