The Stations of the Cross represent Jesus’ condemnation and crucifixion, observed in Catholic Churches. Catholics can visit the Via Crucis to meditate on Christ’s suffering. The 14 stations are observed on Fridays during Lent and Good Friday. Some Catholics argue for a 15th station to emphasize the resurrection.
The Stations of the Cross are both a representation of the condemnation and crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and also an observation of the 14 important parts of this representation usually performed in Catholic Churches. In fact, most Catholic Churches are dotted with paintings or stained glass windows showing these moments. During some Masses or religious observances, the Stations may be the object of particular attention.
Some Catholics regularly visit the Via Crucis, pausing at each performance to meditate on the suffering of Jesus Christ and the sanctity of the resurrection. Such contemplation of Christ’s suffering can help people find their way through difficult moments in their lives.
Most Catholics can observe the stations on Fridays during Lent. Observation is almost always held on Good Friday during the service. This is not typically considered a mass, as communion is not given on Good Friday. Instead, it is a time to contemplate Christ’s willing sacrifice so that all may have eternal life.
The Stations of the Via Crucis are as follows:
Jesus is condemned to death.
Jesus receives the cross.
Jesus falls for the first time while carrying the cross.
Jesus meets his mother, the Virgin Mary.
Simon carries the cross for Jesus for a short time.
Veronica wipes the face of Jesus.
Jesus falls for the second time.
Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem.
Jesus falls for the third time.
Jesus is stripped of his clothes.
Jesus is crucified.
Jesus dies.
Jesus is taken down from the cross.
Jesus is buried.
During the Good Friday service, or a mass observing the Stations of the Cross, special prayers are said or songs are sung during each station. Sometimes the priest will only visit the stations, while other times members of the congregation may join the priest and visit each station briefly.
The Via Crucis is also called by some Catholics The Way. Since Christ refers to himself as “The Way” in the New Testament writings, some Catholics feel that there is too much emphasis placed on the crucifixion and not enough emphasis on the resurrection and the real life and teachings of Jesus. They argue that the crucifixion was the result of politics and has little to do with the true meaning of Christ.
Furthermore, the emphasis on crucifixion has translated, for some, throughout history into a dislike or hatred of the Jewish people, as some Jews invoked Christ’s death according to the New Testament. The decision was ultimately made by Roman leaders, however, and the church now teaches that Judaism must be regarded as the source of Catholicism.
Many still argue that the continued emphasis on the Stations of the Cross is not a good reflection of such church teachings. Recent popes have attempted to remedy this problem with mediocre success. Some argue for a 15th station, which would be a depiction of Christ rising from the dead, and shift the emphasis to the miracle of the resurrection.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
