The Stations of the Cross: A Lenten Devotion at Guardian Angels
During the season of Lent, the Church invites us to enter more deeply into the mystery of Christ’s Passion. One of the most profound ways we do this is by praying the Stations of the Cross. This devotion allows us to walk spiritually alongside our Lord as He journeys to Calvary, reflecting on His suffering and death for our salvation.
At Guardian Angels, we offer the Stations of the Cross every Friday during Lent at 3:00 PM, providing an opportunity for the faithful to unite their hearts with Christ’s sacrifice. We encourage all parishioners to join us in this powerful prayer, whether as a family, with fellow parishioners, or in quiet personal reflection.
The History of the Stations of the Cross
The practice of meditating on the Passion of Christ by following His footsteps to Calvary has its origins in the early centuries of Christianity. After the legalization of Christianity in the fourth century, pilgrims traveled to Jerusalem to visit the holy sites where Jesus suffered, died, and rose again. They would walk the Via Dolorosa, or "Way of Sorrow," pausing at various places of significance to pray and reflect.
As travel to the Holy Land became difficult, especially during the Middle Ages, the Franciscan friars—who were given custody of the sacred sites—helped establish the Stations of the Cross in churches and monasteries throughout Europe. By the 17th century, Pope Innocent XI granted indulgences to those who practiced this devotion, and in 1731, Pope Clement XII set the standard number of fourteen stations, which we commonly use today.
A Prayerful Invitation
The Stations of the Cross remind us that Christ’s suffering was not in vain—He endured His Passion out of love for us. Each station offers a moment to meditate on the depth of that love and to bring our own crosses before Him, uniting our struggles with His.
Join us every Friday during Lent at 3:00 PM as we walk this sacred path together at Guardian Angels. Let us make this devotion a meaningful part of our Lenten journey, drawing closer to Christ through prayer, repentance, and gratitude for His sacrifice.
In Christ,
Fr. Joe Connelly