The Way of the Cross
As early Christian theologian Tertullian wrote in the third century, the world is patterned in the shape of the cross. As Christians, we are called to live a cruciform (“cross-shaped”) life. As we look toward making the journey of Holy Week on our own apart from our church community this year, we can be reminded of the solitude Jesus faced in his own journey toward the cross. We can find the shape of his moments of suffering and consolation on Good Friday written into the world around us.
How To Use This Guide
Use this guide to find the stations of the cross “written into nature.” Each station has a scripture passage, prayer from the Book of Common Prayer, and questions to reflect on.
We invite you to use this guide on your own on the Ted Caplow trail at Emmanuel Episcopal Church. However you can also use this guide in your own neighborhood, yard or park.
As you enter the trail from the back church parking lot, look for temporary marker signs provided to guide you. The path follows the same that is mapped out on the Ted Caplow Trail map. As you encounter the signs... stop and look at your surroundings. You may find the same natural item pictured in the guide below or you may find your own. We encourage you to discover and relate to your natural surroundings in your own way. Perhaps you will notice something different.
Once you complete the stations, if time allows, walk back the way you came and see if you can find the items in nature again in reverse order.
If following the signs on the Ted Caplow Trail, please note that the stops for the children's guide have been marked with numerals. There are 9 stations for children and 14 for adults.
Please observe local guidelines for masking, social distancing, and dog leashing.
Adapted from The Rev. Mia Kano of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Wellesley, MA
We invite you to use this guide on your own on the Ted Caplow trail at Emmanuel Episcopal Church. However you can also use this guide in your own neighborhood, yard or park.
As you enter the trail from the back church parking lot, look for temporary marker signs provided to guide you. The path follows the same that is mapped out on the Ted Caplow Trail map. As you encounter the signs... stop and look at your surroundings. You may find the same natural item pictured in the guide below or you may find your own. We encourage you to discover and relate to your natural surroundings in your own way. Perhaps you will notice something different.
Once you complete the stations, if time allows, walk back the way you came and see if you can find the items in nature again in reverse order.
If following the signs on the Ted Caplow Trail, please note that the stops for the children's guide have been marked with numerals. There are 9 stations for children and 14 for adults.
Please observe local guidelines for masking, social distancing, and dog leashing.
Adapted from The Rev. Mia Kano of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Wellesley, MA
Stations of the Cross in Nature For AdultsEach station includes a relevant scripture passage, a prayer from the Book of Common Prayer, and a reflection question.
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Stations of the Cross in Nature for ChildrenEach station has a summary of the story of the station, a sentence from scripture, a simple prayer, a wondering question, and a simple activity for an embodied response.
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Stations of the Cross in Nature For Adults
Find the stations in nature…
- I. First Station – Jesus is condemned to die - Find a climbing vine on a tree.
- II. Second Station – Jesus takes up his cross - Find a heavy log.
- III. Third Station – Jesus falls for the first time - Find a place to sit and rest in silence.
- IV. Fourth Station – Jesus meets his mother - Find a flower.
- V. Fifth Station – Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry the cross - Find a tree leaning against another.
- VI. Sixth Station – Veronica wipes the face of Jesus - Find a stained tree or rock.
- VII. Seventh Station – Jesus falls the second time - Find a place to sit and rest in silence.
- VIII. Eighth Station – Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem - Find a creek, stream or flowing water.
- IX. Ninth Station – Jesus falls for the third time - Find a place to sit and rest in silence.
- X. Tenth Station – Jesus is stripped of his garments - Find a tree whose bark is stripped.
- XI. Eleventh Station – Jesus is nailed to the cross - Find a wounded tree.
- XII. Twelfth Station – Jesus dies on the cross - Find a stump.
- XIII. Thirteenth Station – Jesus is taken down from the cross - Find a fallen tree.
- XIV. Fourteenth Station – Jesus is laid in the tomb - Find a large stone.
I. First Station – Jesus is condemned to die.
IN NATURE: FIND A VINE CIRCLING A TREE
In Nature: Find a Vine Circling a Tree
Reflection Question:
What crimes or societal sins do we observe around us that we ignore? What brokenness do we need to bear more responsibility for?
What crimes or societal sins do we observe around us that we ignore? What brokenness do we need to bear more responsibility for?
Matthew 27: 20-24
Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus killed. The governor again said to them, ‘Which of the two do you want me to release for you?’ And they said, ‘Barabbas.’ Pilate said to them, ‘Then what should I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?’ All of them said, ‘Let him be crucified!’ Then he asked, ‘Why, what evil has he done?’ But they shouted all the more, ‘Let him be crucified!’
So when Pilate saw that he could do nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took some water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, ‘I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves.’
Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus killed. The governor again said to them, ‘Which of the two do you want me to release for you?’ And they said, ‘Barabbas.’ Pilate said to them, ‘Then what should I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?’ All of them said, ‘Let him be crucified!’ Then he asked, ‘Why, what evil has he done?’ But they shouted all the more, ‘Let him be crucified!’
So when Pilate saw that he could do nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took some water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, ‘I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves.’
Pray
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
II. Second Station – Jesus takes up his cross.
IN NATURE: FIND A HEAVY LOG
In Nature: Find a Heavy Log
Reflection Question:
What heavy things have you been carrying lately? Why have those burdens been placed on you? Why have you taken them up willingly? What is worth carrying right now and what is worth letting go of?
What heavy things have you been carrying lately? Why have those burdens been placed on you? Why have you taken them up willingly? What is worth carrying right now and what is worth letting go of?
Mark 15: 16-20
Then the soldiers led him into the courtyard of the palace (that is, the governor’s headquarters); and they called together the whole cohort. And they clothed him in a purple cloak; and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on him. And they began saluting him, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ They struck his head with a reed, spat upon him, and knelt down in homage to him. After mocking him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him.
Then the soldiers led him into the courtyard of the palace (that is, the governor’s headquarters); and they called together the whole cohort. And they clothed him in a purple cloak; and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on him. And they began saluting him, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ They struck his head with a reed, spat upon him, and knelt down in homage to him. After mocking him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him.
Pray
Almighty God, whose beloved Son willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross of our redemption: Give us courage to take up our cross and follow him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Almighty God, whose beloved Son willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross of our redemption: Give us courage to take up our cross and follow him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
III. Third Station – Jesus falls for the first time.
SIT AND REST IN SILENCE
Sit and Rest In Silence
Philippians 2:5-11
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death— even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death— even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
IV. Fourth Station – Jesus meets his mother.
IN NATURE: FIND A FLOWER
In Nature: Find a Flower
Reflection Question:
Who has been there for you at the most difficult moments of your life? Have you shared your gratitude for them with them and God?
Who has been there for you at the most difficult moments of your life? Have you shared your gratitude for them with them and God?
Luke 8:28-35
Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.’ And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’
Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.’ And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’
Pray
Hail Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou amongst women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou amongst women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
V. Fifth Station – Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry his cross.
IN NATURE: FIND A TREE LEANING AGAINST ANOTHER
In Nature: Find a Tree Leaning Against Another
Reflection Question:
What burdens have you been asked to carry for others? What kept you from feeling resentment? When have you taken up another's cross out of compassion? When has another person taken up yours?
What burdens have you been asked to carry for others? What kept you from feeling resentment? When have you taken up another's cross out of compassion? When has another person taken up yours?
Luke 23:26
As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus.
As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus.
Pray
Heavenly Father, whose most dear Son, as He walked the way of The Cross, accepted the service of Simon of Cyrene to carry his physical burden for him: grant us each the grace gladly to bear one another's burdens, for the love of him who said, "As you did it to the least of these my brethren, you did it to me," your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Heavenly Father, whose most dear Son, as He walked the way of The Cross, accepted the service of Simon of Cyrene to carry his physical burden for him: grant us each the grace gladly to bear one another's burdens, for the love of him who said, "As you did it to the least of these my brethren, you did it to me," your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
VI. Sixth Station – Veronica wipes the face of Jesus.
IN NATURE: FIND A STAINED TREE OR ROCK
In Nature: Find a Stained Tree or Rock
Reflection Question:
In the time before cameras, instantly capturing the image of another was an outlandish miracle. How does photography shape your life and memory? How has the explosion of image-based media affected your prayer, worship, and faith life in positive and negative ways?
In the time before cameras, instantly capturing the image of another was an outlandish miracle. How does photography shape your life and memory? How has the explosion of image-based media affected your prayer, worship, and faith life in positive and negative ways?
Isaiah 53: 2-5
For he grew up before him like a young plant,
and like a root out of dry ground;
he had no form or majesty that we should look at him,
nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
He was despised and rejected by others;
a man of suffering and acquainted with infirmity;
and as one from whom others hide their faces
Surely he has borne our infirmities
and carried our diseases;
yet we accounted him stricken,
struck down by God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions,
crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the punishment that made us whole,
and by his bruises we are healed.
For he grew up before him like a young plant,
and like a root out of dry ground;
he had no form or majesty that we should look at him,
nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
He was despised and rejected by others;
a man of suffering and acquainted with infirmity;
and as one from whom others hide their faces
Surely he has borne our infirmities
and carried our diseases;
yet we accounted him stricken,
struck down by God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions,
crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the punishment that made us whole,
and by his bruises we are healed.
Pray
Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with your most gracious favor, and further us with your continual help; that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in you, we may obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with your most gracious favor, and further us with your continual help; that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in you, we may obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
VII. Seventh Station – Jesus falls for the second time.
SIT AND REST IN SILENCE
Sit and Rest In Silence
Isaiah 53: 6,7
All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have all turned to our own way,
and the Lord has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
He was oppressed, and he was afflicted,
yet he did not open his mouth;
like a lamb that is led to the slaughter,
and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.
All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have all turned to our own way,
and the Lord has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
He was oppressed, and he was afflicted,
yet he did not open his mouth;
like a lamb that is led to the slaughter,
and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.
VIII. Eighth Station – Jesus meets the woman of Jerusalem.
IN NATURE: FIND A STREAM, CREEK OR FLOWING WATER
In Nature: Find a Stream, Creek or Flowing Water
Reflection Question:
What groups of people or communities are especially suffering and crying out right now? How does our compassion shift when we think of communities in addition to individuals?
What groups of people or communities are especially suffering and crying out right now? How does our compassion shift when we think of communities in addition to individuals?
Luke 23:27-31
A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say,
“Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.” Then they will begin to say to the mountains, “Fall on us”; and to the hills, “Cover us.” For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?’
A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say,
“Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.” Then they will begin to say to the mountains, “Fall on us”; and to the hills, “Cover us.” For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?’
Pray
Gracious Father, we pray for your holy Catholic Church. Fill it with all truth, in all truth with all peace. Where it is corrupt, purify it; where it is in error, direct it; where in any thing it is amiss, reform it. Where it is right, strengthen it; where it is in want, provide for it; where it is divided, reunite it; for the sake of Jesus Christ your Son our Savior. Amen.
Gracious Father, we pray for your holy Catholic Church. Fill it with all truth, in all truth with all peace. Where it is corrupt, purify it; where it is in error, direct it; where in any thing it is amiss, reform it. Where it is right, strengthen it; where it is in want, provide for it; where it is divided, reunite it; for the sake of Jesus Christ your Son our Savior. Amen.
IX. Ninth Station – Jesus falls for the third time.
SIT AND REST IN SILENCE
Sit and Rest In Silence
Lamentations 3:1, 2, 5-8, 16, 19
I am one who has seen affliction
under the rod of God’s wrath; he has driven and brought me
into darkness without any light; he has besieged and enveloped me
with bitterness and tribulation;
he has made me sit in darkness
like the dead of long ago.
He has walled me about so that I cannot escape;
he has put heavy chains on me; though I call and cry for help,
he shuts out my prayer;
He has made my teeth grind on gravel,
and made me cower in ashes;
The thought of my affliction and my homelessness
is wormwood and gall!
I am one who has seen affliction
under the rod of God’s wrath; he has driven and brought me
into darkness without any light; he has besieged and enveloped me
with bitterness and tribulation;
he has made me sit in darkness
like the dead of long ago.
He has walled me about so that I cannot escape;
he has put heavy chains on me; though I call and cry for help,
he shuts out my prayer;
He has made my teeth grind on gravel,
and made me cower in ashes;
The thought of my affliction and my homelessness
is wormwood and gall!
X. Tenth Station – Jesus is stripped of his garments.
IN NATURE: FIND A TREE WITH STRIPPED BARK
In Nature: Find a Tree with Stripped Bark
Reflection Question:
What good things has life stripped of you? What things do you need to strip from your own life? How are our hearts spiritually naked before God?
What good things has life stripped of you? What things do you need to strip from your own life? How are our hearts spiritually naked before God?
John 19:23-24
When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four parts, one for each soldier. They also took his tunic; now the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from the top. So they said to one another, ‘Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see who will get it.’ This was to fulfill what the scripture says,
‘They divided my clothes among themselves,
and for my clothing they cast lots.’
When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four parts, one for each soldier. They also took his tunic; now the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from the top. So they said to one another, ‘Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see who will get it.’ This was to fulfill what the scripture says,
‘They divided my clothes among themselves,
and for my clothing they cast lots.’
Pray
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
XI. Eleventh Station – Jesus is nailed to the cross.
IN NATURE: FIND A WOUNDED TREE
In Nature: Find a Wounded Tree
Reflections
What wounds do you carry? Why do Jesus’ nail wounds stay on his resurrected body? What might your wounds and scars do for you?
What wounds do you carry? Why do Jesus’ nail wounds stay on his resurrected body? What might your wounds and scars do for you?
Mark 15:22-28
Then they brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha
(which means the place of a skull). And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh; but he did not take it. And they crucified him, and divided his clothes among them, casting lots to decide what each should take.
It was nine o’clock in the morning when they crucified him. The inscription of the charge against him read, ‘The King of the Jews.’ And with him they crucified two bandits, one on his right and one on his left.
Then they brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha
(which means the place of a skull). And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh; but he did not take it. And they crucified him, and divided his clothes among them, casting lots to decide what each should take.
It was nine o’clock in the morning when they crucified him. The inscription of the charge against him read, ‘The King of the Jews.’ And with him they crucified two bandits, one on his right and one on his left.
Pray
O God our Father, whose Son forgave his enemies while he was suffering shame and death: Strengthen those who suffer for the sake of conscience; when they are accused, save them from speaking in hate; when they are rejected, save them from bitterness; when they are imprisoned, save them from despair; and to us your servants, give grace to respect their witness and to discern the truth, that our society may be cleansed and strengthened. This we ask for the sake of Jesus Christ, our merciful and righteous Judge. Amen
O God our Father, whose Son forgave his enemies while he was suffering shame and death: Strengthen those who suffer for the sake of conscience; when they are accused, save them from speaking in hate; when they are rejected, save them from bitterness; when they are imprisoned, save them from despair; and to us your servants, give grace to respect their witness and to discern the truth, that our society may be cleansed and strengthened. This we ask for the sake of Jesus Christ, our merciful and righteous Judge. Amen
XII. Twelfth Station – Jesus dies on the cross.
IN NATURE: FIND A STUMP
In Nature: Find a Stump
Reflections
What moments of your life have you felt true despair? What got you through those moments when all felt lost?
What moments of your life have you felt true despair? What got you through those moments when all felt lost?
Mark 15:33-37
When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?’ which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, ‘Listen, he is calling for Elijah.’ And someone ran, filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink, saying, ‘Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.’ Then Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last.
When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?’ which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, ‘Listen, he is calling for Elijah.’ And someone ran, filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink, saying, ‘Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.’ Then Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last.
Pray
Almighty and everliving God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Almighty and everliving God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
XIII. Thirteenth Station – Jesus is taken down from the cross.
IN NATURE: FIND A FALLEN TREE
In Nature: Find a Fallen Tree
Reflections
Who has taken care of you when you have been unable to care for yourself? When have you felt most helpless and powerless to help others?
Who has taken care of you when you have been unable to care for yourself? When have you felt most helpless and powerless to help others?
Lamentations 2:11-12
My eyes are spent with weeping;
my stomach churns;
my bile is poured out on the ground
because of the destruction of my people, because infants and babes faint
in the streets of the city. They cry to their mothers,
‘Where is bread and wine?’ as they faint like the wounded
in the streets of the city, as their life is poured out
on their mothers’ bosom.
My eyes are spent with weeping;
my stomach churns;
my bile is poured out on the ground
because of the destruction of my people, because infants and babes faint
in the streets of the city. They cry to their mothers,
‘Where is bread and wine?’ as they faint like the wounded
in the streets of the city, as their life is poured out
on their mothers’ bosom.
Pray
Lord Jesus Christ, by your death you took away the sting of death: Grant to us your servants so to follow in faith where you have led the way, that we may at length fall asleep peacefully in you and wake up in your likeness; for your tender mercies' sake. Amen.
Lord Jesus Christ, by your death you took away the sting of death: Grant to us your servants so to follow in faith where you have led the way, that we may at length fall asleep peacefully in you and wake up in your likeness; for your tender mercies' sake. Amen.
XIV. Fourteenth Station – Jesus laid in the tomb.
IN NATURE: FIND A LARGE STONE
In Nature: Find a Large Stone
Reflections
As we move into Holy Saturday, we take on waiting in the dark and locked room with the disciples. What are you waiting for? What has you holding your breath?
As we move into Holy Saturday, we take on waiting in the dark and locked room with the disciples. What are you waiting for? What has you holding your breath?
Matthew 25:57-60
When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who was also a disciple of Jesus. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be given to him. So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock. He then rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb and went away.
When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who was also a disciple of Jesus. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be given to him. So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock. He then rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb and went away.
Pray
O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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Each station has a summary of the story of the station, a sentence from scripture, a simple prayer, a wondering question, and a simple activity for an embodied response.
It can feel odd and difficult to talk about such heavy, morbid topics with kids. But doing the stations of the cross teaches kids that our faith is big enough to hold the saddest and most difficult parts of life. Every child will encounter death, suffering, bullying, and grief, even though we try to protect them from it.
These stations will help kids to know that Jesus experienced what they have--and is with them in those times, too.
If following the signs on the Ted Caplow Trail, please note that the stops for the children's guide have been marked with numerals. There are 9 stations for children and 14 for adults. There will be signs for adult stops that children will skip but they allow a nice opportunity to take a break to rest, pause and reflect.
It can feel odd and difficult to talk about such heavy, morbid topics with kids. But doing the stations of the cross teaches kids that our faith is big enough to hold the saddest and most difficult parts of life. Every child will encounter death, suffering, bullying, and grief, even though we try to protect them from it.
These stations will help kids to know that Jesus experienced what they have--and is with them in those times, too.
If following the signs on the Ted Caplow Trail, please note that the stops for the children's guide have been marked with numerals. There are 9 stations for children and 14 for adults. There will be signs for adult stops that children will skip but they allow a nice opportunity to take a break to rest, pause and reflect.
Stations of the Cross in Nature For Children
Find the stations in nature…
1. Jesus is condemned to death – find a climbing vine circling a tree
2. Jesus picks up his cross – find a heavy log or rock
3. Jesus falls with the cross – find a quiet place to sit
4. Jesus meets his mother – find a flower
5. Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry the cross – find a tree that’s leaning against another tree
6. Veronica wipes the face of Jesus – find a tree or rock that’s stained
IF YOU ARE ON THE TED CAPLOW TRAIL, LOOK FOR A NICE PLACE BY THE STREAM TO TAKE A BREAK
7. Jesus is stripped of his garments – find a tree whose bark is stripped
8. Jesus dies on the cross – find a stump or fallen tree
9. Jesus is laid in the tomb – find a large stone
Trust that God will reveal each station to you as you need it!
1. Jesus is condemned to death – find a climbing vine circling a tree
2. Jesus picks up his cross – find a heavy log or rock
3. Jesus falls with the cross – find a quiet place to sit
4. Jesus meets his mother – find a flower
5. Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry the cross – find a tree that’s leaning against another tree
6. Veronica wipes the face of Jesus – find a tree or rock that’s stained
IF YOU ARE ON THE TED CAPLOW TRAIL, LOOK FOR A NICE PLACE BY THE STREAM TO TAKE A BREAK
7. Jesus is stripped of his garments – find a tree whose bark is stripped
8. Jesus dies on the cross – find a stump or fallen tree
9. Jesus is laid in the tomb – find a large stone
Trust that God will reveal each station to you as you need it!
I. First Station – Jesus is condemned to die.
IN NATURE: FIND A VINE CIRCLING A TREE
In Nature: Find a Vine Circling a Tree
We tell the story:
After Jesus rode into Jerusalem treated like a king, Jesus’ jealous enemies pressured the Roman leader of Jerusalem, Pilate, to sentence Jesus to death on the cross. Even though Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent, Pilate did what they demanded. He washed his hands to show that he did not feel responsible for what he did.
After Jesus rode into Jerusalem treated like a king, Jesus’ jealous enemies pressured the Roman leader of Jerusalem, Pilate, to sentence Jesus to death on the cross. Even though Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent, Pilate did what they demanded. He washed his hands to show that he did not feel responsible for what he did.
We read:
Then he asked, ‘Why, what evil has he done?’ But they shouted all the more, ‘Let him be crucified!’
- Matthew 27: 23-24
Then he asked, ‘Why, what evil has he done?’ But they shouted all the more, ‘Let him be crucified!’
- Matthew 27: 23-24
We look and remember:
To remember the pressure that Jesus' jealous enemies placed on Pilate, find a climbing vine on a tree.
To remember the pressure that Jesus' jealous enemies placed on Pilate, find a climbing vine on a tree.
We do and remember:
To remember the pressure that Pilate felt, cross your arms and give yourself a tight squeeze.
To remember the pressure that Pilate felt, cross your arms and give yourself a tight squeeze.
We wonder:
Pilate didn’t really want to do this to Jesus, but he saw other people being mean to Jesus and didn’t do anything to help. Why do you think that was?
Pilate didn’t really want to do this to Jesus, but he saw other people being mean to Jesus and didn’t do anything to help. Why do you think that was?
We pray:
Jesus, forgive us for all the times when we have stood by and watched while other people were being treated in a mean way. Help us to forgive the people who have been mean to us, and the people who didn’t step up to help. Help us be brave enough to stand up for other people when they need us. Amen.
Jesus, forgive us for all the times when we have stood by and watched while other people were being treated in a mean way. Help us to forgive the people who have been mean to us, and the people who didn’t step up to help. Help us be brave enough to stand up for other people when they need us. Amen.
2. Second Station – Jesus picks up his cross.
IN NATURE: FIND A HEAVY LOG
In Nature: Find a Heavy Log
We tell the story:
Jesus’ punishment was to be nailed on a cross, the very worst death that his enemies could imagine for him. But first, Jesus had to carry his cross outside the city, where he was to be raised up. The cross was very heavy and hard to carry.
Jesus’ punishment was to be nailed on a cross, the very worst death that his enemies could imagine for him. But first, Jesus had to carry his cross outside the city, where he was to be raised up. The cross was very heavy and hard to carry.
We read:
“So they took Jesus; and carrying the cross himself, he went out to what is called the Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha.”
- John 19:16-17
“So they took Jesus; and carrying the cross himself, he went out to what is called the Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha.”
- John 19:16-17
We look and remember:
To remember Jesus picking up his cross, find a heavy log.
To remember Jesus picking up his cross, find a heavy log.
We do and remember:
With the help of an adult, try to pick up the heaviest thing you can find.
With the help of an adult, try to pick up the heaviest thing you can find.
We wonder:
Why did Jesus willingly carry such a heavy thing such a long way? What do we mean when we say things in our life are “heavy” or “a lot to carry?” Where is God in those times?
Why did Jesus willingly carry such a heavy thing such a long way? What do we mean when we say things in our life are “heavy” or “a lot to carry?” Where is God in those times?
We pray:
Jesus, help us to face the hardest parts of our lives. Help us to remember that you know what it feels like to be scared and in pain, and that you are with us even during scary and sad times. Amen.
Jesus, help us to face the hardest parts of our lives. Help us to remember that you know what it feels like to be scared and in pain, and that you are with us even during scary and sad times. Amen.
3. Third Station – Jesus falls with the cross.
SIT AND REST IN SILENCE
Sit In Silence
We tell the story:
The cross was so hard and so heavy that even Jesus fell down when he was carrying the cross and walking to the Place of the Skull. He didn’t just fall once, he fell three times. But Jesus didn’t give up, because he knew what he had to do – and he knew the end of the story: Easter Sunday.
The cross was so hard and so heavy that even Jesus fell down when he was carrying the cross and walking to the Place of the Skull. He didn’t just fall once, he fell three times. But Jesus didn’t give up, because he knew what he had to do – and he knew the end of the story: Easter Sunday.
We read:
“Upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed.”
- Isaiah 53:5
“Upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed.”
- Isaiah 53:5
We look and remember:
To remember Jesus falling with the cross, we find a place to sit and rest.
To remember Jesus falling with the cross, we find a place to sit and rest.
We do and remember:
Sit in silence.
Sit in silence.
We wonder:
Sometimes when we have to deal with something that makes us scared or sad, it can feel like we keep falling, over and over, and nothing can ever go right again. The same thing happened to Jesus. How does Jesus help us get up when we’re tired and in pain?
Sometimes when we have to deal with something that makes us scared or sad, it can feel like we keep falling, over and over, and nothing can ever go right again. The same thing happened to Jesus. How does Jesus help us get up when we’re tired and in pain?
We pray:
Jesus, help us when we feel like giving up. Help us to remember it is okay to fall and need to rest. Thank you for being there to help us up and give us the strength to keep trying. Amen.
Jesus, help us when we feel like giving up. Help us to remember it is okay to fall and need to rest. Thank you for being there to help us up and give us the strength to keep trying. Amen.
4. Fourth Station – Jesus meets his mother.
IN NATURE: FIND A FLOWER
In Nature: Find a Flower
We tell the story:
But Jesus wasn’t alone. There were three special people who were there to help Jesus and be with him in his pain. The first person Jesus met was his mother, Mary, who loved him just as much as your parents love you. She knew he was very special because of what the angel had told her. She also knew that his life would be difficult.
But Jesus wasn’t alone. There were three special people who were there to help Jesus and be with him in his pain. The first person Jesus met was his mother, Mary, who loved him just as much as your parents love you. She knew he was very special because of what the angel had told her. She also knew that his life would be difficult.
We read:
Then Simeon…said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’
- Luke 8:33-35
Then Simeon…said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’
- Luke 8:33-35
We look and remember:
To remember Jesus’ mother, we find a flower.
To remember Jesus’ mother, we find a flower.
We do and remember:
Give your mom or dad or loved one a hug!
Give your mom or dad or loved one a hug!
We wonder:
Jesus must have been grateful his mother was there for him. Who has been there for you when you are sad or scared?
Jesus must have been grateful his mother was there for him. Who has been there for you when you are sad or scared?
We pray:
Jesus, we thank you for the love of our parents and the other adults who take care of us, the same way that your mother Mary took care of you. Help us to show our love to them every day. Amen.
Jesus, we thank you for the love of our parents and the other adults who take care of us, the same way that your mother Mary took care of you. Help us to show our love to them every day. Amen.
5. & 6. Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry the cross and Veronica wipes the face of Jesus.
IN NATURE: FIND A TREE LEANING AGAINST ANOTHER
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IN NATURE: FIND A STAINED TREE OR ROCK
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In Nature: Find a Tree Leaning Against Another and Find a Stained Tree or Rock
We tell the story:
Jesus met two friends along the way who helped him. Simon helped Jesus to carry the cross and Veronica wiped the sweat from his face.
Jesus met two friends along the way who helped him. Simon helped Jesus to carry the cross and Veronica wiped the sweat from his face.
We read:
As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus.
- Luke 23:26
As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus.
- Luke 23:26
We look and remember:
To remember Simon, we find a tree leaning against another tree. To remember Veronica, we find a stained tree or rock.
To remember Simon, we find a tree leaning against another tree. To remember Veronica, we find a stained tree or rock.
We do and remember:
Ask someone how you can help them today.
Ask someone how you can help them today.
We wonder:
Everybody needs some help sometimes. Who has helped you? Can you think of a time when you helped somebody else?
Everybody needs some help sometimes. Who has helped you? Can you think of a time when you helped somebody else?
We pray:
Jesus, we thank you for the friends in our lives who help us when we feel sad or scared. Help us to be good friends to other people, and to show our love to them by taking care of them. Amen.
Jesus, we thank you for the friends in our lives who help us when we feel sad or scared. Help us to be good friends to other people, and to show our love to them by taking care of them. Amen.
If you are following the Ted Caplow Trail, you will encounter a nice place by the stream to take a break before the next station (near adult stops VII-IX).
7. Seventh Station – Jesus is stripped of his garments.
IN NATURE: FIND A TREE WITH STRIPPED BARK
In Nature: Find a Tree with Stripped Bark
We tell the story:
Before Jesus died, the people in charge pushed him around and made fun of him. They took all his clothes, and they made him wear a crown made out of thorns that hurt his head. They were hurting his body, but they also wanted to make him feel bad about himself.
Before Jesus died, the people in charge pushed him around and made fun of him. They took all his clothes, and they made him wear a crown made out of thorns that hurt his head. They were hurting his body, but they also wanted to make him feel bad about himself.
We read:
They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on his head…they spat on him, and took the reed and struck him on the head. After mocking him, they stripped him of the robe and put his own clothes on him.
- Matthew 27:5-34
They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on his head…they spat on him, and took the reed and struck him on the head. After mocking him, they stripped him of the robe and put his own clothes on him.
- Matthew 27:5-34
We look and remember:
To remember Jesus being stripped, we find a tree whose bark is stripped.
To remember Jesus being stripped, we find a tree whose bark is stripped.
We do and remember:
The best thing we can do to get rid of hate is to cover it up with love. Touch your hands to your heart. Then stretch your hands of love out towards the bare part of the tree. Touch the bare part if it is close by. (For safety reasons, please stay on the trail. )
The best thing we can do to get rid of hate is to cover it up with love. Touch your hands to your heart. Then stretch your hands of love out towards the bare part of the tree. Touch the bare part if it is close by. (For safety reasons, please stay on the trail. )
We wonder:
Has anyone ever made you feel bad about yourself by making fun of you? Have you ever seen someone else make another person feel bad by making fun of them?
Has anyone ever made you feel bad about yourself by making fun of you? Have you ever seen someone else make another person feel bad by making fun of them?
We pray:
Jesus, forgive us for the times when we have hurt other people or made them feel bad. Help us to think about how we use our words, and to use them in kind and helpful ways instead of using them to hurt people. Amen.
Jesus, forgive us for the times when we have hurt other people or made them feel bad. Help us to think about how we use our words, and to use them in kind and helpful ways instead of using them to hurt people. Amen.
8. Eighth Station – Jesus dies on the cross.
IN NATURE: FIND A STUMP OR FALLEN TREE
In Nature: Find a Stump or Fallen Tree
We tell the story:
Jesus died on the cross. Jesus gave over his spirit and life to God.
Jesus died on the cross. Jesus gave over his spirit and life to God.
We read:
Jesus said, “It is finished.” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
- John 19:30
Jesus said, “It is finished.” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
- John 19:30
We look and remember:
To remember Jesus’ death on the cross, we find a stump or fallen tree.
To remember Jesus’ death on the cross, we find a stump or fallen tree.
We do and remember:
We put things on the altar to show that we’re giving them back to God. Lay small stones or leaves on the stump to give all your feelings about Jesus’ death back to God.
We put things on the altar to show that we’re giving them back to God. Lay small stones or leaves on the stump to give all your feelings about Jesus’ death back to God.
We pray:
Share a moment of silence.
Share a moment of silence.
9. Ninth Station – Jesus laid in the tomb.
IN NATURE: FIND A LARGE STONE
In Nature: Find a Large Stone
We tell the story:
Jesus’ friends were very sad. They took good care of his body. They washed it and wrapped it in spices that smelled good. They went away in grief, but God had a surprise for them on Easter.
Jesus’ friends were very sad. They took good care of his body. They washed it and wrapped it in spices that smelled good. They went away in grief, but God had a surprise for them on Easter.
We read:
So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock.
- John 19:30
So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock.
- John 19:30
We look and remember:
To remember Jesus laid in the tomb, we find a large stone.
To remember Jesus laid in the tomb, we find a large stone.
We do and remember:
Head home and wait for Easter to come!
Head home and wait for Easter to come!
We wonder:
Have you ever been to a funeral? What happens at a funeral? What do you remember? What can we do when we can’t have a funeral?
Have you ever been to a funeral? What happens at a funeral? What do you remember? What can we do when we can’t have a funeral?
We pray Jesus’ prayer:
Our Father,
Who art in heaven,
Hallowed by thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses
As we forgive those who trespasses against us.
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil,
For this is the kingdom
And the power and the glory
For ever and ever. Amen.
Our Father,
Who art in heaven,
Hallowed by thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses
As we forgive those who trespasses against us.
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil,
For this is the kingdom
And the power and the glory
For ever and ever. Amen.