By Jaimie Julia Winters
The Stations of the Cross, a 14-step devotion commemorating Jesus Christ’s Passion and death on Good Friday, is a meaningful Lenten tradition for Catholics. In Kearny, parishioners have several ways to observe the devotion beyond the traditional indoor plaques found in church sanctuaries.
This year, three local parishes are offering distinct experiences, including outdoor and live reenactments.
St. Cecilia Church will host its Stations of the Cross on April 3 at 10:30 a.m. at West Hudson Park in Harrison, located at the corner of Schuyler and Davis avenues.
Our Lady of Sorrows Church will continue its longstanding tradition of holding the Stations of the Cross at the Wayside Cross in Riverside Park on Good Friday, April 3, at noon.
Both options in outdoor settings offer participants a chance to reflect in a communal, natural environment.
Later that evening, St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church, located at 141 Washington Ave., will present its “Living Stations of the Cross” at 7:30 p.m. Organized by the parish youth group, the event features a dramatic reenactment of the final hours of Jesus’ life. Attendees are asked to be seated in the church by 7:15 p.m.
For those seeking a quieter, more personal experience, St. Stephen’s also offers a prayer courtyard featuring 14 artistic renditions of the Stations of the Cross along a winding path, with benches available for reflection.
The Stations of the Cross trace Jesus’ journey from his condemnation by Pontius Pilate to his crucifixion, death, and burial. The devotion invites believers to meditate on Christ’s suffering and love, while reflecting on their own burdens. Many Catholics choose to observe the Stations on Good Friday, traditionally believed to be the day of Jesus’ death at 3 p.m.
