Stations of the Cross

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Stations of the Cross

There are 14 Stations of the Cross in every Catholic Church. At each station there is a painting or statue depicting Jesus Christ as He is led to His crucifixion and death.

During the time of the crusades (1095-1270), pilgrims to the Holy Land followed the path of Jesus to Calvary. After the Moslems captured the Holy Land, the Way of the Cross... held outdoors... became a substitute pilgrimage throughout Europe.

In the l8th century Stations were allowed inside churches. Eventually, fourteen Stations became a familiar feature in Catholic churches.

The Way of the Cross makes us more aware of Christ's sufferings and of His great love for us.

Praying the Stations of the Cross

It's not necessary to pray the Stations in church... you can follow the Stations shown below. Start at the first station. Make the sign of the Cross. Imagine that you are standing beside Jesus, as He is being questioned by Pontius Pilate. Tell Jesus your thoughts and feelings. End by saying an Our Father, a Hail Mary and a Glory Be.

Move to the next station. Again place yourself in the scene. Bless yourself and reflect on what you see. Express your gratitude, sorrow and love.

Continue in this manner. At the 12th station, Jesus dies on the Cross. Kneel for a moment and thank Him for giving His life to free us from our sins.

End at the 14th station, where Jesus is placed in the tomb.