If there be a true way that leads to the Everlasting Kingdom,
it is most certainly that of suffering, patiently endured.

 
St. Colette, 15th century

The cross is our trophy raised against the demons,
our sword against sin,
and the sword Christ used to pierce the serpent.

 
St. John Chrysostom, 4th century

In sorrow and suffering,
go straight to God with confidence,
and you will be strengthened, enlightened, and instructed.

 
St. John of the Cross, 16th century

It is a great comfort in tribulation
if in times of adversity we recall the gifts our Creator has given us.
Overwhelming sorrow will not break us if we quickly call to mind
the gifts which have sustained us.

 
St. Gregory the Great, 6th century

We feel our crosses hard at times,
but our courage should rise with them.

 
St. Mary MacKillop, 19th century

If you carry the cross willingly,
it will carry and lead you to the desired goal
where indeed there shall be no more suffering.

 
'The Imitation of Christ; Thomas a Kempis, 15th century

You have less to suffer in following the Cross
than in serving the world and its pleasures.

 
St. John Vianney, 19th century

The indispensible source of energy and renewal,
when frailty and weakness increase,
is the encounter with the living Christ.

 
Bl. John Paul II, 20th century