Stations of the Cross

After considering the numerous requests of BEC members / leaders and further taking into consideration the overwhelming turn-out for the Way of the Cross last Friday, we have decided to conduct the Way of the Cross at parish level instead every Friday at 7.30 pm to be followed by Mass. I had initially wanted to encourage the BEC leaders to coordinate the Way of the Cross at the BEC level on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Friday of Lent and back to the parish level on 6th Friday of Lent and Good Friday.

If you are unable to attend the Way of the Cross recitation at Church because of your work schedule or other commitments, you may always do so as an individual or family or BEC. You need to create an ambiance in your home and pray together. It is a very powerful way to pray the Stations as a family.

Just light up candles at your altar or place fourteen small candles and as you proceed through the Stations, light the respective candles. By observing these simple gestures without fail, we may find ourselves looking forward to and enjoying Lent this year. Walking through the Stations while reflecting on them is a way to help you and your family understand the meaning of the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross.

The Stations of the Cross are a 14-step Catholic devotion that commemorates the key events of Jesus’ last day, beginning with His condemnation. At each station, the individual recalls and meditates on a specific event and prayer from Christ’s last day, then the individual moves to the next station until all 14 stations are complete.

During Lent, we remember especially the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. This is the greatest act of generosity in history, for Jesus died for all. “God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). The generosity of God in Christ should impel us to be generous and merciful to others especially those poor and in need. This Lent, do your best. Strive to root out sin and cultivate holiness. 

I encourage you to make a Lenten promise (written out), and pray in your morning and evening prayer based on whether you keep that promise or break it.  If you fulfill your Lenten observances (prayer, fasting and almsgiving), at the end of the day you will earn the crown of eternal glory. If you break the Lenten observances then you should make an Act of Contrition as a penance.