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“We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you. Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.”
Stations of the Cross

The actual path that Jesus followed from the courtroom of Pontius Pilate to the place where he died, is in Jerusalem.  Certain spots along this route are marked and these are called stations. Over the centuries, many people traveled to Jerusalem to retrace the steps of Jesus on his way to Calvary, especially during Lent. But Jerusalem was too far for most people to travel. So, hundreds of years ago, people began making this “journey” in their own churches. Using pictures that were carved, painted and placed around their church people were able to recall the events of Jesus’ walk to Calvary. These are what we call the Stations of the Cross today. There are 14 of them. As we recall the events of Jesus’ passion and death, let us remember that most of Jesus’ life was busy, happy, and life giving. In the Stations of the Cross, we look at the one day in Jesus’ life when he suffered and died. Jesus suffered and died for His love for God and His love for us. His way of the cross was a way of love.  
Guides for Stations

Stations of the Cross is one of the most popular Christian devotions. They are traditionally prayed on Fridays during Lent in commemoration of Christ's crucifixion on Good Friday. Because they are a devotion, there are many different forms of Stations. Faithful practice of this popular devotion can help us experience God in our everyday lives and conform us more closely to Jesus Christ.
Places to Pray the Stations

  • Your local parish - Check with your local parish to see if and when they are offering Stations.
  • Note - You don't have to wait for your parish to lead Stations...you can pray them on your own. Consider arriving to Mass early, staying after Mass, or pray them another time the church is available.
  • Virtually - Just like not everyone can travel to Jerusalem, not everyone is able to do Stations in person, so check out virtual options like this one here.
  • In your own home. Try making a set of stations to display in your home (see the "For Your Home" box below)
  • Hang them around your house, and then journey through your house to pray them.
  • Outside - The Stations originally took place outside, so why not venture outside to pray them? Don't want to do it in your front yard? Here are a few places you'll find outdoor Stations of the Cross:
  • Rose Philippine Duchesne Park in Linn County
  • Christ's Peace House of Prayer in Leavenworth County
  • Divine Mercy Park in NKC, MO
  • A little hidden gem just on the other side of the state line. It's quiet and home to the largest statue in the USA of the Divine Mercy. There's a small pond with the Stations of the Cross around the water.
  • A great place to take the family and pray the Stations of the Cross.
  • Check out the slideshow below of pictures of Divine Mercy Park:
In Your Home
Lenten Prayer

Almighty and Everlasting God, You have given the human race Jesus Christ our Savior as a model of humility. He fulfilled Your Will by becoming Man and giving His life on the Cross. Help us to bear witness to You by following His example of suffering and make us worthy to share in His Resurrection. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son. Amen.
St. Joseph Novena

Join in praying the St Joseph Novena March 10-18th click here
in preparation to celebrate St. Joseph's feast day - March 19th

Additional Resources for The Year of St. Joseph - here