CBB Review: Stations of the Cross resources

CBB Review: Stations of the Cross resources February 10, 2016

stations_of_the_cross_spotlightThe Stations of the Cross is a popular devotion that many take advantage of during the Lenten season. It is an ancient practice used to commemorate fourteen stations or events Christ experienced during his Passion.  Ave Maria Press has two valuable resources available to aid in this devotion and I will cover them here.

John Paul II’s Biblical Way of the Cross

Amy Welborn and Michael Dubriel present their version of the Stations by utilizing the format created by Saint Pope John Paul II. The difference between the traditional sequence of the stations and those presented by Pope John Paul II are subtle but interesting. Upon Pope John Paul II’s passing Pope Benedict XVI continued using his predecessors format for the Stations in Rome. So that you can see the difference I have listed the two versions at the end of this review.

Amy and Michael have presented a worthy companion for this sacred tradition. The book is setup in the standard format with each station including the name of the station, the Leaders passages and responses from participants, scripture readings and some truly wonderful meditations written by the authors. One thing that set this book apart from others were the beautiful illustrations by Catholic novelist Michael O’Brien. Printed on quality semi-glossy paper, this book is ideal for group or individual meditation.

Stations of the Cross with the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus

The Apostleship of Prayer presents this meditation in the stations of the cross that follows the traditional sequence. Originally written by Rev. William Prosper, S.J. and edited by Father James Kubicki, this particular version is intended for private meditation. Accompanying each meditation is the artwork of the Stations of the Cross located in the School Sisters of St. Francis’ St. Joseph Chapel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Each of the stations consists of a Scripture passage, a brief meditation on the station and a prayer. What Father has uniquely accomplished in this book is he has tied the stations to the Holy Eucharist itself. He does so by focusing on the very real human suffering of Christ during his Passion.

This book is an excellent resource for reflection on the suffering of our Lord, not only during Lent, but any time of the year. This would be a great mediation source during Eucharistic adoration or even for private reflection in your own home.

Meditating on the Way of the Cross is an invaluable way of drawing closer to Christ in a deeper understanding of his sacrifice. Both of these books would be excellent choices for use in your own devotions this Lent whether you are acting as part of a group or own your own. I will close with what our beloved Saint John Paul II had to say about this devotion.

“In my meditation of Jesus’ Way of the Cross, I try to relate my struggles and sacrifices to the suffering Christ. This happens through prayer. When I pray, I make present in my memory all the sacrifices of my day and unite them to the offering of Jesus’ heart in the Holy Mass. In this way, my prayer can change the world.

Traditional Way of the Cross

I. Jesus is condemned.

II. Jesus Takes up his cross.

III. Jesus falls.

IV. Jesus meets his mother.

V. Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus.

VI. Veronica wipes Jesus’ face.

VII. Jesus falls again.

VIII. Jesus meets the weeping women.

IX. Jesus falls a third time.

X. Jesus is stripped.

XI. Jesus is crucified.

XII. Jesus dies.

XIII. Jesus is taken down from the cross.

XIV. Jesus is buried.

John Paul II’s Biblical Way of the Cross

I. Jesus prays in the garden.

II. Jesus is betrayed and arrested.

III. Jesus is condemned by the Sanhedrin.

IV. Peter denies knowing Jesus.

V. Jesus is condemned by Pilate.

VI. Jesus is scourged and crowned with thorns.

VII. Jesus takes up his cross.

VIII. Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus.

IX. Jesus meets the weeping women.

X. Jesus is crucified.

XI. Jesus promises paradise to the crucified thief.

XII. Jesus cares for his mother.

XIII. Jesus dies.

XIV. Jesus is buried.

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