The Stations of the Cross, 14 in all, can be found inside most churches on the outside walls and may appear to those unfamiliar with them as simply works of art.  While they are beautifully crafted, each one depicts a scene from Jesus' last day on earth.  According to Sheila Kielly and Sheila Geraghty, authors of Camels, Carols, Crosses, and Crowns, "In the Middle Ages, only the monks and members of the royal class knew how to read.  Practices such as...the stations of the cross were used to teach the Bible to the commoners, who could not read."

Why?  We worship with our senses and Lent seems to come with its own sensory package.  The transformation that takes place right inside our church, from the grandeur of Christmas to the gradual simplicity of its adornment during Lent mimics the one that should be taking place inside of us; one of simple, quiet praise and worship.  Praying the Stations of the Cross allows us to enter into the long walk that Jesus took up to Calvary.  While our human minds can never fully grasp the enormity of his sacrifice for us, we can retrace his steps in quiet simplicity, offering him our praise and worship.

What to expect? If this type of prayer is unfamiliar to you, praying with a group is a great introduction.  Holy Family and St. Augustine offer Stations of the Cross at 7:00 pm in the church after Fish Fry.  Typically, a priest (or layperson) will lead the prayers, while the congregation responds, allowing everyone to take part. Booklets are made available at the entrance of the church for ease of following along.

Families may also consider praying The Stations of the Cross at home instead.  Catholic Icing offers a printable ($4 download), stand-up, and easy Stations of the Cross craft for kids. The stations can be colored or printed in color, and are child-friendly images.  Check them out HERE. 

The Word Among Us offers Stations of the Cross for children and can be used with the craft above, or on its own. Print your copy HERE. 

Both Holy Family and St. Augustine have an outdoor Stations of the Cross trail.  Holy Family's trail is located behind the Life Center and St. Augustine's trail is located behind St. Michael Cemetery.  Families can print out the prayer above and walk the trail, stopping at each station to pray.