On April 10th, 2020 (Good Friday), I will be “self isolating” at home in the midst of the COVID-19 world-wide pandemic. In order to try to help slow the spread of the virus, all the churches are closed and we are not permitted to gather. So, I decided I would construct a “Back-Yard Stations of the Cross” using items I had at home as part of an act of worship for Good Friday.
“Stations” (in Latin meaning “to stand”) are a way to commemorate the various events of Jesus’ passion and death. Stations of the Cross are often walked and prayed on Good Friday. To create this simple guide, I surveyed various source materials and decided on simply reading corresponding Scripture while “visiting” each of my home-made stations. (I’ve outlined it for you here).
Set Up: Using a Stations of the Cross guide I found online (thank you to St. Rita’s Roman Catholic Church in Long Island, NY! Find their guide here: http://stritalic.org/GoodFri2013StationsCross%20(1).pdf). I read their commentary and then contemplated each Station’s story (see St. Rita’s guide). I chose a word or phrase that “popped out” to me and noted it. I then thought about the things around my house and imagined how to represent each Station. I wanted all my senses to be involved – touch, taste, smell, hearing and sight… as well as my emotions.
Choosing my items took a little time and it did require a stretch of my imagination, but my intent is sincere and so is my desire to “walk with Jesus!” What we each choose should have meaning for each of us, besides we are home alone anyway!
On Maundy Thursday, I plan to set up my stations around the perimeter of my yard. On Friday I will gather my readings (which I’m sharing with you here!) and will take my journal and pen on my journey. I am planning plenty of time for my “walk.”
Simple directions to walk the Stations:
Stop at each station to interact with your chosen item/action:
Read the Scripture
Contemplate
Imagine the situation and try to “see” Jesus
Move onto the next station when ready. Take your time. (You probably aren’t going anywhere anyway…?!)
You may want to take photos, make notes or simply enjoy the moment of God’s grace at each Station. The “rules” are yours.
– Meg McBride
