Sanctuary of the Crucifix
It is a simple and modern building, in the form of a cross and with the wooden ascending roof of Siberian larch. Designed by the architect Julio Lafuente, it was built in 1955 and erected as Sanctuary in 1959.
It is called “Sanctuary of the Crucifix” because, on the front wall, covered with tropical wood, is suspended the original Crucifix, which Mother Esperanza describes in her Journal: “Jesus let me know his great desire to have an image made of Merciful Love and the symbols it should have.”
The Spanish sculptor Cullot-Vallera received the request, in 1930, to make a crucifix, in which we could see not the torture but the love Jesus shows on the cross for the expiation of our sins. The image was even to have the traits and expressions which br the centurion to exclaim: “Truly, this man was the Son of God.”
Jesus Merciful Love, on the Cross, reminds us of the sacrifice on Mount Calvary, the white Host represents the daily renewal of the sacrifice on the altar of the Eucharist.
The cross stands above a globe, the world, which also supports a royal crown and an open book: the Gospel.In this book are written the words: “Love one another as I have loved you,”and on the cushion are the words: “You are, o Christ, the King of Glory.”Jesus, Merciful Love, you want to rule over the world by bringing it your Love.
The expression on his face is characteristic, as it shows great serenity even in the midst of pain and suffering. Jesus is represented still alive on the cross, looking towards heaven, as if he were imploring his Father, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they are doings.”
On his chest is the image of a red heart with the inscription: “Charitas.” How great the throbs of his love must have been for him to be happy to suffer unto death! By suffering, he showed the full measure of his great Love.
