Way of the cross

Relevance of Way of the Cross

As youth we like to see and experience the world around us. Today we will look at the scenes of the Way of the Cross. It may be frightening but it can lead us to encounter Christ. As youth we also encounter others and each encounter is unique. Today, as we follow Jesus on the road to Calvary, let us open ourselves to encounter Him.

The Stations of the Cross is a devotional service commemorating the last journey of Christ from Pilate's house to his entombment. The custom of walking the Stations of the Cross came into usage in the Fifteenth Century as an outgrowth of the Christian Crusades to the Middle East.

What does the Way of the Cross teach us?

The cross teaches us that sin will separate us from God. Isaiah 59:1, 2 says our sin separates us from God. Romans 5:8 says God showed his love to us while we were yet sinners. You see, Jesus was separated from God because of our sin and its consequences.

Where did the Way of the Cross originate?

In the end it was Leonard of Port Maurice or Porto Maurizio (Italy) (1676–1751), a Franciscan of the Riformella, who established what we know as the 14 Stations of the Cross. During his long life as missionary, Saint Leonard erected more than 570 Stations of the Cross.

What are the benefits of praying the Way of the Cross?

Praying the Stations of the Cross helps inspire deep prayer. God gives us the grace to contemplate the suffering of Jesus and feel deep empathy and love for Him. As we meditate on the events, they become more vivid and take root in our hearts.