Knelt before a crucifix, the prayer that looks at the wounds and says what it sees.
A prayer of contrition said kneeling before an image of the crucified Christ.
When: On Fridays, in Lent, and after confession. A plenary indulgence is attached to it on Fridays of Lent under the usual conditions.
Why: It does not argue a person into sorrow. It puts them in front of the Cross and lets the sight do the work.