Stations of the Cross
A series of 14 meditations tracing Jesus Christ's Passion from His condemnation to His burial, traditionally prayed on Fridays during Lent.
Duration: 20-30 minutes
History
The Stations of the Cross (Via Crucis or Way of the Cross) originated with pilgrims retracing Christ's final journey in Jerusalem. The devotion became widespread through churches worldwide, especially through the efforts of Franciscan friars in the Middle Ages.
The 14 stations commemorate specific moments from Jesus' condemnation by Pontius Pilate to His burial in the tomb. At each station, the faithful pause to meditate on that moment of Christ's Passion.
A plenary indulgence is granted to those who devoutly follow the Way of the Cross under standard conditions. The devotion is especially popular during Lent and on Good Friday.
Promises
- 1A plenary indulgence is granted to those who devoutly make the Way of the Cross.
- 2The faithful grow in understanding of Christ's suffering and love for humanity.
- 3Grace is obtained to bear one's own crosses with patience and love.
Church Approval
The Stations of the Cross is one of the most ancient and widely practiced devotions in the Catholic Church, promoted especially by the Franciscan Order.