Centuries ago the devotion of the Stations of the Cross was created for those who could not make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and walk the path Jesus took from Pilate's presence to Golgotha. The ritual involves movement from one to another of fourteen stops, or stations, representing significant moments in Jesus' passion and death. Some ministers now add a fifteenth station, the Resurrection to emphasize the fullness of the Paschal Mystery.

See Liturgical Calendar–Seasons–Holy Week for additional background information and prayer.


"Drawing Closer to Jesus" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Drawing closer to Jesus, who loves us, through the Stations of the Cross
Materials		Prayer table, Bible, candle, copies of liturgy, large cross or crucifix, music
Music		"Song of the Body of Christ," "Hands of Christ," [instrumental], Blest Are We Music CD 4; "At the Cross Her Station Keeping," Jacopone da Todi (OCP Publications), "Were You There," Spiritual
Reading		Luke 23:1–56
Preparation		Prior to the prayer celebration, recall with children the story of Jesus’ Passion and death. Allow time for any questions they may have. Print out and photocopy the liturgy, "Drawing Closer to Jesus." Select a leader and readers. Help readers review their parts before the prayer celebration. See also Holy Week–Kids, Level 3 for a Stations Booklet.
Adaptation		Have participants study the Stations of the Cross before the prayer celebration. Invite them to suggest meditative music for each station. or have them choose a common refrain to sing at each station.
Additional Materials		"Song of the Body of Christ," "Hands of Christ," [instrumental] Blest Are We Music CD 4 Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725). ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36655-7 Blest Are We Song Book Words and melody for children; contains music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36617-4 Blest Are We Accompaniment Book Contains accompaniment music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36618-2