The Way of the Cross (Stations of the Cross)

The way of the cross is made up of fourteen stations which recall Jesus’ journey from Jerusalem to be crucified. (In some there are fifteen, where the last station represents the Resurrection). For nearly 2000 years, Christians have followed the path Jesus took towards Calvary. In Jerusalem the stations lead to the Holy Sepulchre. In the Middle Ages, the practice arose of representing the stations with churches and chapels, or an outdoor path.

This devotion is carried out in a spirit of penance (most parishes celebrate it during Lent) and reparation. It is a devotion which has a special place in Lourdes.

There are three Ways of the Cross in Lourdes:

1. The principal way of the cross is on the hillside in a steep wooded area across the road from the Upper Basilica (this way of the cross is not wheelchair accessible).
2. The way of the cross on the level is alongside the Gave (on the opposite side to the Grotto).
3. The Stations of the Cross are depicted in stained glass on the walls of the Underground Basilica.

Clicking on each station below will show you the prayers and meditations for it.

• The First Station: Jesus is condemned to death
• The Second Station: Jesus receives the cross
• The Third Station: Jesus falls the first time
• The Fourth Station: Jesus is met by His blessed mother
• The Fifth Station: Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus to carry His cross
• The Sixth Station: Veronica wipes the face of Jesus
• The Seventh Station: Jesus falls the second time
• The Eighth Station: the women of Jerusalem mourn for our Lord
• The Ninth Station: Jesus falls for the third time
• The Tenth Station: Jesus is stripped of His garments
• The Eleventh Station: Jesus is nailed to the cross
• The Twelfth Station: Jesus dies on the cross
• The Thirteenth Station: Jesus is taken down from the cross
• The Fourteenth Station: Jesus is placed in the tomb

Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ, you walked the way to Calvary to rescue us from our sin, but the Father, pleased with your obedient submission to His will, glorified you in the resurrection. May we follow obediently in your footsteps so that one day we may share in the glory of your risen life. We make this prayer through you who lives with the Father and Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.

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