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.


"Jesus, Our Redeemer" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Recalling that Jesus died for our sins and to bring us eternal life
Materials		Prayer table, Bible, candle, copies of liturgy, music
Music		"Song of the Body of Christ," Blest Are We Music CD 4; "Ride On, Jesus, Ride," Lead Me, Guide Me (GIA Publications)
Reading		Luke 23:1–56
Preparation		Invite participants to work in groups of two or three to write prayer meditations for the stations. Select a leader for the celebration and a meditation reader for each station. This celebration can be held in church or another worship space. Print out and photocopy the liturgy, "Jesus, Our Redeemer."
Adaptation		Invite participants to work in small groups to create a tableau for each station, using simple props and costumes.
Additional Materials		"Song of the Body of Christ," 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