Stations of the Cross
Stations of the Cross is prayed Fridays during Lent at 6:45pm, except on Good Friday, when it is prayed at 11:00am.
Those serving this liturgy may proceed to the Sacristy following Communion at the 6pm Mass to vest.
Roles¶
Order¶
Throughout the whole of the liturgy, the Candle bearers flank the Crucifer, and all three move as a unit. The Crucifer initiates all movements and turns.
Entrance¶
- Ring the Entrance Bells at the Lourde's Door, process to the foot of the Sanctuary, and Reverence with the Priest.
- Standby while the Priest prays the introductory prayers.
- When the Priest is finished, proceed to the first station.
For each Station¶
- Proceed to the painting that corresponds to the station, stopping in front of it.
- Turn to face outward, with backs to the painting.
- Remain standing for the prayers of the station, even as the Priest and the people kneel and Genuflect.
- The Crucifer may rest the Processional Crucifix on the ground if he must, though it is better to hold it high.
- The Candle bearers should hold the Processional Candles, not setting them down.
- After the station is finished, proceed to the next station.
The Stations¶
There are 14 stations, each with a corresponding painting. They are spread throughout the perimeter of the church in order, starting on the North wall near the Rosary Altar, and continuing around the church counterclockwise (when viewed from above).
For the stations whose paintings are against the South wall near the confessionals, the Servers should form up in the 66th Street aisle with their backs to the pews, lined up with the paintings (instead of in the narrow aisle directly adjacent to the confessionals, with their backs to the paintings). This allows the Priest and People to follow more easily.
Conclusion¶
After the final station:
- Proceed to the foot of the Presbytery.
- Standby while the Priest prays the closing prayers.
- When he is finished, Reverence and proceed out the Lourde's Door.