Simon of Cyrene

Simon was the one who helped Jesus bear the cross. He was from Cyrene, a major city in North Africa (Matthew 27.32; Mark 15.21; Luke 23.26). This was a unique opportunity for Simon to be selected to help bear the burden of our Lord and Savior on his way to Calvary. In recognition of the role he played in our Lord's passion, it is significant that all three synoptic Gospels mention his name.