What and Why are the “Stations of the Cross”?

Altar servers at Stations 14

Each Friday during the season of Lent – the 6½ weeks preceding Easter – Catholics in parish churches throughout the world gather for a special devotion known as “Stations of the Cross.” (Other names are “Way of the Cross” and “Via Dolorosa.”)

If you have ever wondered what this is about, Fr. Bosco and the people of St. Mary, Manchester, warmly invite you to join them on Friday, March 17 at 7 pm at St. Mary Church, 210 W. Main St, when in addition to “praying the Stations,” there will be a brief presentation explaining the history, traditional iconography, and various prayer options associated with the Stations of the Cross. Catholic churches traditionally have images, either sculptural or painted, along their interior walls illustrating for meditation the 14 stations or locations along the Way of the Cross. Prayers are prayed at each station. Therefore each of us has the opportunity to make a “pilgrimage” along the Way of the Cross right here in Manchester.

The purpose of this devotion is to “draw close to God so that He may draw close to us” (James 4:8). At this solemn and penitential time of Lent, reflecting and mediating on this journey of Jesus to the cross can be deeply meaningful. And praying together the Stations of the Cross can enhance this. We hope you will join us on Friday, March 17, to find out more about this wonderful practice and to make this journey also.

Ponder in your heart the journey of our Lord from his agony in the garden to Calvary as we pray together the Stations of the Cross. We invite you to linger afterward in our church hall for light snacks and beverages. If you have any further questions, please call the St. Mary parish office at 734-428-8811.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.