A poem for Good Friday by Piers Northam

Standing near

Their eyes never leave you, 
together confronting the agony 
as you are pinioned to the cross 
and crucified.

Three long hours. 

Their presence is unwavering, 
their gaze unflinching,  
though a sword pierces 
their own anguished hearts.

Among them, the one 
who endured the agonies 
of bringing you into the world: 
who cradled the infant you. 
Now you are held in her gaze, 
her eyes fixed on you 
as she stands close by.
Soon she will cradle 
your stiffening, lifeless body. 

Where others have faltered and fled, 
these are the ones who remain, 
their presence, all that is left to give:
a wilful resistance, 
a faithful standing by, 
a harrowing witness.

Here, at the foot of the cross, 
is true strength, 
true devotion:
a love that is unsparing
and never turns away… 

Passiontide 2026
Piers Northam.