Way of the Cross

Each Station, pictured here during the Way of the Cross, allows pilgrims a chance to reflect on a moment in Christ's Passion. The dramatic story of Christ’s Passion and Death is universally known among Christians. It has been told and retold down through the ages.

For centuries pilgrims have traveled to the Holy Land to retrace Christ's Way of the Cross leading to His death. Following the narrow streets of Jerusalem, the pilgrims pause to reflect and pray along the way, giving thanks for the great gift of salvation.

The spirit of Christ’s self-sacrificing love is alive, aiding those who seek solace from everyday cares and concerns. At the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows pilgrims can participate in this traditional devotion through the outdoor Way of the Cross.

The Way of the Cross follows 14 Stations along a half-mile roadway amidst a grove of evergreens and pines. Each Station depicts a poignant grouping of full-color statues of Christ, Mary and the others who journeyed with Christ on His way to Calvary.

Handpainted background scenes give the Stations a realistic, three dimensional effect. The wooden structures encasing the Stations were built by Oblate seminarians shortly after the Shrine's opening in 1958. Landscaped areas surround each Station with natural beauty throughout the year.

Each Station, pictured here during the Way of the Cross, allows pilgrims a chance to reflect on a moment in Christ's Passion. Visitors wishing to pray the Way of the Cross can follow a recorded
meditation at each Station, offered in English or Spanish. The Way of the
Cross roadway is also open to automobile traffic.

Two other devotional sites at the Shrine are located near the Way of the Cross to enhance our appreciation of Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection.

The Agony Garden site is located near the beginning of the Way of the
Cross. A large, carrara marble statue of Jesus kneeling in prayer portrays
Christ’s Agony in the Garden of Olives on the night of His betrayal.

At the end of the Way of the Cross is the Resurrection Garden, sometimes
referred to as the 15th Station. The garden includes a Resurrection Cave
that resembles a giant stone. The cave is hollowed out on one side, revealing
a cut geode, with a tomb-like vacant slab representing the Risen Christ.
A continuous burning flame reminds us of the everlasting life that Christ
has promised us.