The Stations of the Cross (also called the Way of the Cross) is a traditional Christian devotion that commemorates the events of Jesus Christ’s Passion, from His condemnation by Pontius Pilate to His burial. The devotion consists of a series of stations—usually fourteen—each representing a specific moment along Christ’s journey to Calvary. Worshippers move from station to station, praying, meditating on Scripture, and reflecting on Christ’s suffering, sacrifice, and love for humanity.
The practice developed in the early Church from pilgrims who walked the actual path of Christ in Jerusalem. When travel to the Holy Land became difficult, especially in medieval Europe, churches began installing symbolic stations so the faithful could spiritually make the same journey. Today, the Stations are especially prayed during Lent, particularly on Fridays, as a way to unite one’s own struggles with Christ’s Passion and to contemplate the mystery of redemption.