Simon was a man from Cyrene, who was chosen for a most distinguished honor in the events of Jesus’ passion and crucifixion. Three of the four gospels make it clear that Simon was forced by the Romans to help Jesus carry his cross. It was not common for the condemned to carry their crosses to the place of crucifixion, but this event has great theological significance for all believers. Jesus receives this amazing gift of charity from Simon at the most crucial moment of his life. Simon makes it possible for Jesus to fulfill his mission, and this is a reflection of what Christ wants us to allow Him to do for us during our own Journey. We are all commanded to take up our crosses and follow Christ, but we are also to be keenly aware that Jesus himself will be there to help us carry our crosses to the end. Also, as a matter of context, the gospel of Mark tells of Simon having two sons named Alexander and Rufus. It seems that these two would have been named in the story for the benefit of the early believers to make the connection between these family members due to them having prominence in the early Church.
Matthew 27:32
“As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross.”
Mark 15:21
“A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross.”
Luke 23:26
“As the soldiers led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus.”
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Volunteers, Helpers, Assistants
Feast Day:
December 1
Illustration by: Colton Rompala