Fr Leonard E Dollentas
As we enter the season of Lent, the Church offers a great number of suggestions for our spiritual progress. One common devotion is the Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) which is more commonly referred to as ‘Way of Sorrows’,‘Via Dolorosa’, or simply the Stations of the Cross.
The “Stations of the Cross” are a series of fourteen pictures, paintings, or carvings that portray the events along Christ’s journey in his final hours, from his condemnation by Pontius Pilate to his body being laid in the tomb. It is thought that the Stations originated as a way for those unable to travel the pilgrimage route in Jerusalem, the ‘Via Dolorosa’. The plenary indulgence attached to the pilgrimage is also given to those who prayerfully make the journey of the fourteen stations. The modern form of the Stations of the Cross with the standard fourteen stations was recorded in Spain in the 17th century, although even today variations in the list of the stations exist.
It can be prayed at any time during the church year but is particularly relevant during the season of Lent, especially on Good Friday and the Fridays during the season of Lent. The devotion can be prayed alone or as a group. In order to pray the Stations of the Cross, the individual or group moves from one station to station meditating and reciting prayers on the events depicted which relate to Christ’s Passion, from the first station where he is condemned to death to the fourteenth, which meditates on the burial of Jesus.
The stations provide an orderly way of meditating on the Lord’s Passion. Hence, the words of Pope Benedict XVI at the celebration of the Way of the Cross at the Coliseum, Rome Italy in 2008 are worth reflecting: “Brothers and sisters, our gaze is frequently distracted by scattered and passing earthly interests; let us direct our gaze today toward Christ. Let us pause to contemplate his Cross. The Cross is the source of immortal life, the school of justice and peace, the universal patrimony of pardon and mercy… His nailed arms are open to each human being, and they invite us to draw near to him, certain that he accepts us and clasps us in an embrace of infinite tenderness: ‘I when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself’ (Jn 12: 32).”
Our parishes in Macau celebrate the devotion of Stations of the Cross on a weekly basis during Lent (see O Clarim’s Way of the Cross Timetable 2022) This communal celebration offers several benefits. How often do we intend to pray during Lent, and yet fail to make the time? Joining in a parish celebration of the Stations of the Cross provides a concrete time that we can commit to prayer. The celebrations of the Stations of the Cross provide also an opportunity for fellowship. Coming together at these events provides an opportunity to encourage one another, form deep bonds, and receive further inspiration. If your parish celebration is held too late for your small children to attend, consider meditating on the Stations of the Cross at home each Friday as a family.
(Note to our readers from Macau: copies of the prayers or the booklets of the Stations of the Cross are available at St. Paul Media Centre near the Macau Cathedral) (Photo: Ivan Leong)
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