V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we praise Thee. 
R. Because by Thy holy Cross, Thou hast redeemed the world. 

Jesus, the most innocent of beings, is condemned to death, yes, to the shameful death of the cross.  In order to remain a friend of Caesar, Pilate delivers Jesus into the hands of His enemies.  O fearful crime, to condemn Innocence to death and to displease God in order to please men. 

O innocent Jesus, I have sinned and I am guilty of eternal death; but that I may Live, Thou dost gladly accept the unjust sentence of death. For whom then shall I henceforth live if not for Thee, my Lord? If I desire to please men, I can not be Thy servant. Let me, therefore, rather displease the whole world than not please Thee, O Jesus! 

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be.   

V. Lord Jesus, crucified. 
R. Have mercy on us.