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The Stations of the Cross: A Prayer Walked Together

Walking with Christ
During Lent, the Church invites us to pray the Stations of the Cross—a devotion that leads us step by step through the final journey of Jesus, from his condemnation to his burial in the tomb. This prayer allows us to walk with Christ on the road to Calvary, pausing at key moments of suffering, compassion, and love.

Roots in Pilgrimage
The Stations of the Cross trace their roots to the early centuries of the Church, when pilgrims travelled to Jerusalem to walk the path believed to be the route Jesus took on the day of his crucifixion. This path became known as the Via Dolorosa, or “the Way of Sorrow.” For many Christians, such a pilgrimage was not possible, so the Church gradually brought this prayer home by establishing local stations in parish churches.

A Prayer Shared by the Church
The devotion spread widely through the influence of the Franciscans, whose spirituality emphasized meditation on the humanity and suffering of Jesus. St. Francis of Assisi and his followers helped make this prayer accessible to ordinary believers, encouraging them to enter more deeply into the mystery of Christ’s love shown on the cross. Over time, the familiar fourteen stations took shape, drawing from the Gospels and from long-standing traditions of Christian prayer and reflection.

An Invitation for Lent
Praying the Stations of the Cross is both simple and profound. As we move from station to station, we bring our own intentions and burdens, trusting that Christ understands what it means to suffer and to carry a heavy cross. During Lent, parishioners are warmly invited to attend the Stations of the Cross whenever possible, joining a prayer that continues to unite the Church and draw hearts closer to Christ.

Lent at St. Maurice

A time for prayer, fasting, and almsgiving
Lent is a sacred season in which the Church invites us to prepare our hearts for the celebration of Easter. Over forty days, we are called to deepen our prayer, practice penance, and renew our commitment to live the Gospel more fully. Traditionally, this season has a strong focus on conversion, baptismal renewal, and a spirit of repentance shared by the whole Church as we walk this journey together.

This season is also a reminder that faith is not lived in isolation. Lent is shaped by common practices and shared rhythms that unite us as a parish and as part of the wider Church. By observing this season together, we are reminded that our individual efforts are strengthened when they are rooted in a shared life of prayer and worship.

Fasting and Abstinence
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are universal days of fasting and abstinence from meat. Fasting applies to Catholics aged 18 to 59, unless prevented by poor health. On days of fast, one full meal is permitted, along with two smaller meals as needed to maintain strength. Eating between meals is not permitted, although fluids may be taken.

Abstinence from meat applies to Catholics aged 14 and older, unless prevented by poor health. In the Archdiocese of Ottawa–Cornwall, Catholics are asked to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all Fridays of Lent. These practices are intended to help us grow in prayer, self-discipline, and generosity toward others, especially those in need.

Lenten Prayer at the Parish
Stations of the Cross will take place after the 9:00 a.m. Friday Mass throughout Lent. On Good Friday, Stations of the Cross will be celebrated at 7:00 p.m.

Please note the following schedule adjustments during Holy Week:

There will be no Mass or evening adoration/confession on Tuesday due to the Chrism Mass.

There will be no 9:00 a.m. Mass on Holy Thursday. Mass will be celebrated at 7:00 p.m., followed by a time of prayer in the church.

As we move through Lent together, these practices and parish gatherings help shape our common journey toward Easter and support one another in living this season faithfully as a parish community.