DAB-104 Listing.qxp_Layout 1 15/07/2022 12:21 Page 24
THE WAY OF THE CROSS The Stations of the Cross (or Way of the Cross) follows stages in the journey Jesus took on his way to Calvary in Jerusalem. To follow the Stations of the Cross is to reflect on the suffering and death of our Lord Jesus. We give thanks for his unconditional love for each one of us and consider how we are living the gospel message of love and forgiveness. There are several sets of Stations of the Cross in Lourdes: The High Stations The entrance to the High Stations is opposite the entrance of the Upper Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. This rough and stony path winds its way for about a mile through a steep, wooded area. There are 115 gilded cast iron figures in the 15 stations. This path is unsuitable for wheelchair users and those unable to walk uphill. (One of our pilgrimage chaplains will lead able pilgrims and helpers along these stations each morning at 6.15am. It should conclude by 7.00am, so there is still time for breakfast before the remainder of the day’s activities) The Marble Stations (Low Stations) Commissioned to create a new set of Stations that would be accessible for all pilgrims, especially the sick and less able, the sculptress Maria de Faykod has created seventeen Stations carved in marble. In these stations the 15th depicts the closed tomb and the waiting of Mary on Holy Saturday; the 16th is “Jesus is risen” and the 17th Station depicts the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. These Stations are situated just beyond the far bridge, alongside the river, on the prairie side. Underground Basilica of St Pius X There is a set of stations in the underground Basilica of St Pius X in the art form known as “Gemmail”; they are backlit through layers of coloured glass and are mounted on the walls of the basilica.
24
