By Raymundo Frasquillo
MORENCI – Several hundred area Catholics made the traditional journey to the Sacred Heart Cemetery on Good Friday, pausing to recite the stations of the cross as different bearers shouldered the wooden replica.
The group, both young and old, some in strollers, were area residents pausing to hear the 14 stations of the Way of Sorrows and prayers.
There was no R.S.V.P. for the walk; just show up at the Morenci Holy Cross Church for the announced 8:30 a.m. starting time. It is an area tradition originating in Clifton, from Shannon Hill to the cemetery, which now begins from the Morenci Catholic Church.
What Is the Purpose of the Stations of the Cross?
According to the Catholic Online Encyclopedia, “The object of the Stations is to help the faithful to make in spirit, as it were, a pilgrimage to the chief scenes of Christ’s sufferings and death.”
Most simply, the stations of the cross, usually performed during Lent, especially on Good Friday, are about remembering Christ’s suffering for our sake.
Importance of the Stations of the Cross
“Though the stations of the cross shouldn’t be used to gain forgiveness or be construed as actually participating in Christ’s suffering, they can offer important spiritual reminders.
During Easter, it’s exciting to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. However, the stations of the cross can remind us just how far Jesus went to save us, and what a miracle it truly is that He rose from the grave.
Taking time to think, pray, and meditate at each station can help us intentionally spend time with Christ, thanking Him, praising Him, and learning from Him.
The important parts of the stations of the cross are not the ritual prayers, the placement of the stations, or even which stations are included. The most important part is remembering Jesus’ love, sacrifice, and forgiveness and drawing near to Him.” from Christianity.com.
Easter Sunday
The April 5 Easter Sunday mass schedule has a sunrise service at 8 a.m. in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, a Holy Cross Church service at 10 a.m., and a 12:30 p.m. service for Saint Mary’s Mission in Duncan.
