How to Pray the Stations of the Cross

The Stations of the Cross are a 14-step devotion that commemorates Jesus Christ’s last day on Earth. The 14 stations, or devotions, focus on specific events of His last day, beginning with His condemnation. Many use the stations a pilgrimage. At each station, the individual recalls and meditates on a specific event from Christ’s last day. Specific prayers are recited, then the individual moves to the next station until all 14 are complete.

The Stations of the Cross are commonly found in churches as a series of 14 small icons or images. They can also appear in church yards arranged along paths. The stations are most commonly prayed during Lent on Wednesdays and Fridays, and especially on Good Friday, the day of the year upon which the events actually occurred.

Here is how to pray the Stations of the Cross:

Opening Prayer

14 Stations of the Cross:

1. Jesus is condemned to death
2. Jesus takes up his Cross
3. Jesus falls for the first time
4. The Virgin Mary meets Jesus
5. Simon helps Jesus bear the Cross
6. Veronica wipes the face of Jesus
7. Jesus falls for the second time
8. Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem
9. Jesus falls for the third time
10. Jesus is stripped of his garments
11. Jesus is crucified
12. Jesus dies on the Cross
13. Jesus is taken down from the Cross and laid in the arms of Mary
14. Jesus is laid in the tomb

Let the Stations of the Cross come alive in your church or your back yard. See our collection of Stations of the Cross.

Purchase your own Stations of the Cross.  Interested in more?  Learn how to pray the Rosary and other prayers to say at the end of the day.