PRAY the Stations of the RESURRECTION during Easter - Known as the Via Lucis or The Way of Light Explained with FULL Prayers
Stations of the Resurrection:
are a set of prayers to replace the Stations of the Cross during the Easter Season.
The Via Lucis is particularly suited for Easter Sunday, for the weekdays of the Easter Octave (known as "Bright Week" among the Eastern churches), and throughout the Fifty Days of the Easter Season.
The Via Lucis, reflects upon the final chapters of each of the four gospels, which narrate the appearances, of the Risen Lord from Easter to Pentecost. Fourteen "Stations of Light" have beenidentified.
The Official Vatican prayerbook for the Jubilee Year 2000, Pilgrim Prayers, includes a Via Lucis along with the traditional Via Crucis.
FULL Prayers of the Way of Light or Stations of the Resurrection
Introduction
(Tune: O Filli et Filiae)
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
O sons and daughters, let us sing!
The King of heav'n the glorious King,
O'er death today rose triumphing, Alleluia!
Sign of the Cross
Reading: 'For we have grown into union with Christ through a
death like His, we shall also be united with Him in the
resurrection....If, then, we have died with Christ, we
believe that we shall live with Him....Consequently, you
too must think of yourselves as being dead to sin and
living for God in Christ Jesus: (Romans 6: 5, 7, 11).
Reflection: Let us walk this pilgrimage of faith, the Via Lucis, as
daughters and sons of the light and as witnesses of the
Risen Lord. Let us meditate upon the resurrection of
Christ and discover the pathway of light that Christ blazes through our lives.
First Station
Jesus Rises from the Dead
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "The angel of the Lord said to the women: 'Do not be
afraid! I know that you are seeking Jesus the crucified.
He is not here, for He has been raised just as He said."
(Matthew 28: 5b-6a).
Reflection: On the first day of the week, at the dawning of the new creation, Jesus arose
from the dead. No one saw the event, yet like the apostles, we are called to
be witnesses of this central faith event. The light and power of Christ's
death and resurrection has become the pattern for our living. May we
recognize Christ’s dying and rising in our midst.
Silence
Prayer: This is the day, Lord God, that You have made! Raising Christ from the
dead, and raising us with Christ, You have fashioned for Yourself a new
people. As we hear the word that brings salvation, make our hearts burn
within us. Through the presence of every friend and stranger, reveal to us
the face of the One who had first to suffer, but who has entered now into
glory, Jesus Christ, our Passover and our Peace, living and reigning with
You, forever and ever. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
That Easter morn, at break of day,
The faithful women went their way
To seek the tomb where Jesus lay, Alleluia!
Second Station
The Disciples Discover the Empty Tomb
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had
arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed"
(John 20: 8).
Reflection: The empty tomb was not a proof of the resurrection, but rather a silent
witness of the greatest event of our faith. Seeing the empty tomb, the
disciples were motivated to seek the Risen Lord at work in their midst. They
saw and believed in the continuing presence of the Lord of love. All the
empty and lonely places of human life are precisely where the Lord wishes
to work and be revealed.
Silence
Prayer: God our Father, creator of all, today is the day of overwhelming joy. The
Lord appeared to those who had begun to lose hope and opened their eyes to
what the Scriptures foretold: that first He must die and then rise. May the
Risen Lord breathe on our minds and open our eyes that we may know Him
in the breaking of bread, and follow Him in His risen life. Grant this
through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
The dear belov'd apostle John
Could faster than St. Peter run,
Arriving first before the tomb. Alleluia.
The Via Lucis is particularly suited for Easter Sunday, for the weekdays of the Easter Octave (known as "Bright Week" among the Eastern churches), and throughout the Fifty Days of the Easter Season.
The Via Lucis, reflects upon the final chapters of each of the four gospels, which narrate the appearances, of the Risen Lord from Easter to Pentecost. Fourteen "Stations of Light" have beenidentified.
The Official Vatican prayerbook for the Jubilee Year 2000, Pilgrim Prayers, includes a Via Lucis along with the traditional Via Crucis.
FULL Prayers of the Way of Light or Stations of the Resurrection
Introduction
(Tune: O Filli et Filiae)
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
O sons and daughters, let us sing!
The King of heav'n the glorious King,
O'er death today rose triumphing, Alleluia!
Sign of the Cross
Reading: 'For we have grown into union with Christ through a
death like His, we shall also be united with Him in the
resurrection....If, then, we have died with Christ, we
believe that we shall live with Him....Consequently, you
too must think of yourselves as being dead to sin and
living for God in Christ Jesus: (Romans 6: 5, 7, 11).
Reflection: Let us walk this pilgrimage of faith, the Via Lucis, as
daughters and sons of the light and as witnesses of the
Risen Lord. Let us meditate upon the resurrection of
Christ and discover the pathway of light that Christ blazes through our lives.
First Station
Jesus Rises from the Dead
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "The angel of the Lord said to the women: 'Do not be
afraid! I know that you are seeking Jesus the crucified.
He is not here, for He has been raised just as He said."
(Matthew 28: 5b-6a).
Reflection: On the first day of the week, at the dawning of the new creation, Jesus arose
from the dead. No one saw the event, yet like the apostles, we are called to
be witnesses of this central faith event. The light and power of Christ's
death and resurrection has become the pattern for our living. May we
recognize Christ’s dying and rising in our midst.
Silence
Prayer: This is the day, Lord God, that You have made! Raising Christ from the
dead, and raising us with Christ, You have fashioned for Yourself a new
people. As we hear the word that brings salvation, make our hearts burn
within us. Through the presence of every friend and stranger, reveal to us
the face of the One who had first to suffer, but who has entered now into
glory, Jesus Christ, our Passover and our Peace, living and reigning with
You, forever and ever. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
That Easter morn, at break of day,
The faithful women went their way
To seek the tomb where Jesus lay, Alleluia!
Second Station
The Disciples Discover the Empty Tomb
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had
arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed"
(John 20: 8).
Reflection: The empty tomb was not a proof of the resurrection, but rather a silent
witness of the greatest event of our faith. Seeing the empty tomb, the
disciples were motivated to seek the Risen Lord at work in their midst. They
saw and believed in the continuing presence of the Lord of love. All the
empty and lonely places of human life are precisely where the Lord wishes
to work and be revealed.
Silence
Prayer: God our Father, creator of all, today is the day of overwhelming joy. The
Lord appeared to those who had begun to lose hope and opened their eyes to
what the Scriptures foretold: that first He must die and then rise. May the
Risen Lord breathe on our minds and open our eyes that we may know Him
in the breaking of bread, and follow Him in His risen life. Grant this
through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
The dear belov'd apostle John
Could faster than St. Peter run,
Arriving first before the tomb. Alleluia.
Third Station
The Risen Lord Appears to Mary Magdalen, Apostle to the Apostles
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "She turned around and saw Jesus there, but did not
know it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, 'Woman, why
are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?' She
thought He was the gardener and said to Him, 'Sir, if
you carried Him away, tell me where you laid Him,
and I will take Him.' Jesus said to her, 'Mary!" She
turned and said to Him in Hebrew, ‘Rabbouni,’ which
means Teacher. Jesus said to her, 'Stop holding on to
Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go
to My brothers and tell them, 'I am going to My
Father and your Father, to My God and your God.'
Mary of Magdalen went and announced to the
disciples, 'I have seen the Lord,' and what He told
her" (John 20: 14b-18).
Reflection: In the fourth gospel, Mary Magdalen is given the mission to carry the good
news of the resurrection to the apostles and the disciples. Mary had been in
the company of Jesus and His followers, and is given the privilege to
announce the hope of new life. She is known over the centuries as "the
apostle to the Apostles." Jesus called her by name, gave her the eyes of
faith, and called her to give a unique personal witness to her friends in the
faith community.
Silence
Prayer: God our Father, You will that all people to be saved and come to the
knowledge of Your truth. Send workers into Your great harvest that the
Gospel may be preached to every creature. May Your people, gathered
together by the word of life and strengthened by the power of the
sacraments, advance in the way of salvation. We ask this through Christ our
Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Not Magdalen, not Salome,
Nor James' own mother then delay
Embalming Jesus' corpse that day. Alleluia.
Fourth Station
The Risen Lord Appears on the Road to Emmaus
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "...It happened that while they were conversing and
debating, Jesus Himself drew near and walked with
them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing
Him.... And He said to them, 'Oh, how foolish you are!
How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets
spoke! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should
suffer these things and enter into His glory?' Then
beginning with Moses and all the prophets, He
interpreted to them what referred to Him in all the
scriptures" (Luke 24: 15, 25-27).
Reflection: The Emmaus road is the story of the Christian life. These disciples were
walking away from Jerusalem and the apostolic faith community in defeat
and dejection. They had lost hope. We too, have moments of despair and
desolation. The Risen Lord Jesus accompanies us along the road, even
when we are moving in the wrong direction. Only the Lord can "break
open" the Word in order to help us understand the stories of our lives,
especially suffering, and read them in harmony with the pattern of the
Scriptures. Only the Lord can rekindle our energy and our resolve to devote
ourselves to what is most important in life.
Silence
Prayer: Lord God, as disciples on our pilgrimage, we implore Jesus Christ: stay with
us, Lord. Open our hearts to true conversion and, as we have known the
Lord in the breaking of the bread, so make us witnesses of a new humanity,
renewed, reconciled and at peace in Your love. Send us as heralds of the
repentance and forgiveness You offer to all in the name of Jesus, who lives
and reigns with You, forever and ever. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
That night the apostles met in fear;
Amidst them came the Lord most dear,
And said My peace be on all here. Alleluia.
Fifth Station
The Risen Lord is Recognized in the Breaking of the Bread
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: " ...They urged Him, 'Stay with us, for it is nearly
evening and the day is almost over.' So He went in to
stay with them. And it happened that while He was
with them at table, He took bread, said the blessing,
broke it, and gave it to them. With that, their eyes
were opened and they recognized Him, but He
vanished from their sight. Then they said to each
other, 'Were not our hearts burning within us while He
spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to
us’" (Luke 24: 29-32).
Reflection: The encounter on the road leads to the table, the breaking of the bread and
the total gift of self. Recognition of the Risen Lord is always linked with
the Eucharist. At the heart of our Christian life is this meal of Word and
Eucharist which we celebrate every Sunday. The Risen Lord presides over
all our journeys, wishing to set our hearts on fire in generous service to all
people in need, near and far. The gift we have received is the gift we share.
Humbly, we set out on the various roads of our lives to respond to all the
hungers of the human family.
Silence
Prayer: You are truly blessed, O God of holiness: You accompany us with love as
we journey through life. Blessed too, is Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is
present among us, and whose love gathers us together. As once He did for
His disciples, Christ now opens the Scriptures for us and breaks the bread.
May the Eucharist we celebrate guide us to the fullness of Christ's life. We
pray in the power of Christ's Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
When Thomas, first the tidings heard,
How they had seen the Risen Lord,
He doubted the disciples' word. Alleluia.
Sixth Station
The Risen Lord Appears to the Community of Disciples
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "'Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise
in your hearts? Look at My hands and My feet, that it
is I Myself. Touch Me and see, because a ghost does
not have flesh and bones as you can see I have,' And as
He said this, He showed them His hands and His feet"
(Luke 24: 38-40).
Reflection: The disciples on the road to Emmaus quickly returned to the other disciples
in Jerusalem with "burning hearts." Their despair had been reversed and
they were eager to convince the others that Jesus was alive. Jesus the Christ
is always eager to gather the community of disciples at the table of faith and
to show them that He has risen with His wounds glorified. All our wounds
will one day be glorified. We seek to understand how the Risen Lord
invites us to be "wounded healers," recognizing now that the Lord desires
us to be ambassadors of reconciliation, while we ourselves are being
forgiven and healed.
Silence
Prayer: God of unchanging power and light, look with favor and mercy on the
entire community of Your Church. Bring lasting salvation to the human
family, so that the world may see the fallen lifted up, the old made new, and
all things brought to perfection, through Him who is our origin, our Lord
Jesus Christ who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
My wounded side, O Thomas see;
Behold My hands, My feet, said He
Not faithless, but believing be. Alleluia.
Seventh Station
The Risen Lord Breathes Peace and Gives the Power to Forgive
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them,
'Peace be with you'... The disciples rejoiced when they
saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, 'Peace be with
you. As the Father has sent Me, so I send you.' And
when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to
them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive
are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are
retained'" (John 20: 19b, 20b-23).
Reflection: Even though the doors of the Upper Room were bolted shut, the Risen Lord
pierced through all fear and united the hearts of the disciples with the gift of
peace. Deep inner peace is the root and source of the peace and joy that the
world cannot give. The Risen Lord calls us to seek peace always through a
non-violent commitment to conflict resolution and thus transform the world,
relationship by relationship.
Silence
Prayer: God of perfect peace, violence and cruelty can have no part of You. May
those who are at peace with one another hold fast to the good will that
unites them; may those who are enemies forget their hatred and be healed.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
No longer Thomas then denied,
He saw the feet, the hands, the side;
You are my Lord and God, he cried, Alleluia!
Eighth Station
The Risen Lord Strengthens the Faith of Thomas
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "Thomas…was not with them when Jesus came....
Thomas said, 'Unless I see the mark of the nails in His
hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my
hand into His side, I will not believe'...Jesus came...and
stood in their midst and said, 'Peace be with you.'
Then He said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here and see
My hands, and bring your hand and put it into My side,
and do not be unbelieving, but believe'…Blessed are
those who do not see and yet believe." (John 20: 24-
29).
Reflection: The story of Thomas is important because it is through Thomas’ example
that we realize that doubt can be a part of faith. Too easily we call him
"Doubting Thomas,” and forgetting that after examining the nail marks, he
fully embraced the Risen One as his Lord and Savior. Thomas' doubt was
transformed into a lively faith. We too, are called to believe, knowing full
well that our faith may be tested by doubt and fear. As disciples who desire
an ever-deeper faith, we are patient and understanding with those who are
struggling, searching and seeking like Thomas.
Silence
Prayer: Heavenly Father and God of mercy, we no longer look for Jesus among the
dead, for He is alive and has become the Lord of life. From the waters of
death You raise us up with Him and renew Your gift of life within us.
Increase in our minds and hearts the risen life we share with Christ and help
us to grow as Your people toward the fullness of eternal life with You. We
ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
How blest are they who have not seen,
And yet whose faith has constant been
For they eternal life shall win. Alleluia!
Ninth Station
The Risen Lord Eats with the Disciples on the Shore of Tiberias
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "Jesus said to them, 'Bring some of the fish you just
caught.' So Simon Peter went over and dragged the net
ashore full of one hundred fifty-three large fish. Even
though there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus
said to them, 'Come, have breakfast.' And none of His
disciples dared to ask Him, 'Who are You?' because
they realized it was the Lord" (John 21: 10-12).
Reflection: After the crucifixion, the apostles returned to their former way of life. Out
on the familiar Sea of Galilee, these expert fishers find themselves
ineffective and baffled because not even a single fish was caught. From the
shore, the Risen Lord guides them and directs their nets until they are filled
to overflowing. As He prepares breakfast for them, He nourishes their
hearts and promises them that they can also be fed by making disciples in
His name. He calls them to an entirely new way of fishing—fishing for
people.
Silence
Prayer: Father in heaven, author of all truth, a people once in darkness has listened
to Your Word and followed Your Son as He rose from the tomb. Hear the
prayer of this newborn people and strengthen Your Church to answer Your
call. May we rise and come forth into the light of day to stand in Your
presence until eternity dawns. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
On Sunday morn at break of day
The sad disciples went their way
To see the tomb where Jesus lay. Alleluia.
Tenth Station
The Risen Lord Forgives Peter and Entrusts Him to Feed His Sheep
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon
Peter, 'Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than
these?'... Peter was distressed that Jesus had said to him
a third time, 'Do you love Me?' and he said to Him,
'Lord, You know everything, You know that I love
You.' Jesus said to him, 'Feed my sheep.... Follow Me'
" (John 21: 15, 17b, 19b).
Reflection: The Risen Lord directs His attention to Peter whose embarrassing three-fold
denial was still ringing in his heart. The questions posed by Jesus help
Peter to find reconciliation and to embrace his new mission to tend and feed
the sheep. Their encounter reminds us that forgiveness is always available,
even for the most serious of mistakes we can make. This warm embrace of
forgiveness strengthens our resolve to be reconcilers and healers in the
Spirit of Jesus. Only love can overcome guilt and deception. Only love and
forgiveness can make us whole.
Silence
Prayer: Father, fill our hearts with the fire of Your love and the desire to ensure
justice for our brothers and sisters. By sharing the good things You give us,
may we secure justice and equality for every human being, an end to all
division, and a human society built on love and peace. Grant this through
Christ our Lord.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
An angel clad in white they see,
Who sat and spoke unto the three,
Your Lord has gone to Galilee, Alleluia!
Eleventh Station
The Risen Lord Sends the Disciples into the World
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "'Go therefore, and make disciples of all the nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe
all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with
you always, until the end of the age'" (Matthew 28: 19-
20).
Reflection: From the mountaintop, the Risen Lord gives the "Great Commission" to the
disciples to reach out to the ends of the earth. We realize that we are the
recipients of this faith-filled mission: our ancestors embraced the faith of the
apostles, who were the original witnesses of the resurrection. The greatest
response we can give to such a legacy is our dedication to a new
evangelization of our contemporary culture. We must allow the Risen Lord
to reinvigorate our whole way of living, helping us to re-evaluate every
aspect of our lives with the values of the Kingdom of God.
Silence
Prayer: God of all creation, whose mighty power raised Jesus from the dead, be
present to this community of disciples whom You have called to the hope of
a glorious inheritance among the saints. Strengthen us in the power of the
Spirit to go and make disciples of all nations, to obey everything that Jesus
Christ has commanded us, and to know that He is with us always until the
end of the age, interceding on our behalf, living and reigning with You in
the power of the Holy Spirit, now and forevermore. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
And we with Holy Church unite,
As evermore is just and right,
in glory to the King of light. Alleluia.
Twelfth Station
The Risen Lord Ascends into Heaven
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "So then the Lord Jesus, after He spoke to them, was
taken up into heaven and took His seat at the right hand
of God. But they went forth and preached everywhere,
while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the
word through accompanying signs" (Mark 16: 19-20).
Reflection: The Scriptures do not portray the Ascension as a day of sadness. While still
looking up at the skies, the disciples were consoled by the continuing
presence of the Lord. They return to the familiar surroundings of the Upper
Room, with Mary, the mother of the Lord, to pray in anticipation of their
mission. In this "original novena," we continue to implore the Risen Lord to
be the center of our lives and to keep us focused as a jubilant pilgrim people.
Silence
Prayer: Eternal God, clothe us now with Your power. With the eyes of our hearts
enlightened, may we come to understand the immeasurable greatness of
Your power at work in us who believe. In that strength, may we boldly
pronounce the Good News of our salvation to everyone. We ask this through
Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Our humble thanks to God let's show
And fitting praise on Him bestow
For Paschal blessings here below. Alleluia.
Thirteenth Station
Mary and the Disciples Keep Vigil in the Upper Room for the Spirit's Advent
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You! Because
by the Wood of the Cross and the Light of the
Resurrection, You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "When they entered the city, they went to the upper
room where they were staying.... All [the apostles]
devoted themselves with one accord to prayer, together
with some women, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, and
His brothers" (Acts 1: 13a, 14).
Reflection: Throughout the history of the Church, there have been apostolic movements
dedicated to prayerful contemplation, and others resulting in transforming
action. As we have crossed the threshold into a new millennium, we look to
the "Upper Room" as a symbolic place where we return over and over again,
so that we can become "contemplatives in action." As persons who are both
prayerful and energetic in service to the Gospel, we must always keep vigil
for the advent of the Risen Lord, with the flame of faith alive in our hearts.
Only the Lord can refresh our spirits and renew us in the ministries that flow
from our Baptism and Confirmation.
Silence
Prayer: Father most holy, see Your Church gathered here in prayerful worship like
the first disciples and Mary in the Upper Room. Grant that we may
accomplish, in the joy of the Holy Spirit, all that You give us to do in the
world. May we gladly share in Christ's sufferings so as to rejoice when His
glory is revealed. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
On this most holy day of days,
To God your hearts and voices raise,
In laud and jubilee and praise. Alleluia!
Fourteenth Station
The Risen Lord Sends the Holy Spirit
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "... Suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a
strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house. Then
there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted
and came to rest on each one of them. And they were
all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in
different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them to
proclaim"
(Acts 2: 2-4).
Reflection: The power of the Holy Spirit drives the disciples from the Upper Room into
the streets and marketplace. The Spirit compels them to take the message
everywhere, in places familiar and unfamiliar, not stopping until they reach
the ends of the world. We have been clothed with the same Spirit. We are
called to be evangelizers and witnesses, near and far, wherever we go. The
Spirit always goes before us, preparing the way and strengthening our hearts
to be generous servants of the Risen Lord who ever guides us. Pentecost is
an enduring and continuing event. We implore the Holy Spirit to renew the
face of the earth by renewing us.
Silence
Prayer: Father in heaven, through this spiritual journey, You have reminded us of
the fullness of the mystery of Your revealed love. See Your people gathered
in prayer, open to receive the Spirit's flame. May it come to rest in our
hearts and disperse the divisions of word and tongue. With one voice and
one song, may we praise Your name in joy and thanksgiving. Grant this
through Christ our Lord, and in the power of the Spirit, both now and
forevermore. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
O sons and daughters of the Lord,
The King of glory, King adored,
From death to life has been restored. Alleluia.
Conclusion
Reading: " ... Jesus Himself, through them, sent forth from east
to west the sacred and imperishable proclamation of
eternal salvation. Amen" (Mark 16:8, the Shorter
Ending ).
Reflection: Through the Via Lucis, we have shared our pilgrim
journey with the Risen Lord. As servants and
witnesses of Christ, let us now pray in the way our
Savior taught us:
All: “Our Father…”
Lord, may everything we do, begin with Your
inspiration, continue with Your help, and reach
perfection under Your guidance. We ask this through
Christ, our Risen Lord. Amen.
Prayer:
Sign of Peace
Personal Stations of the Via Lucis
As a coda to the pilgrimage of the Via Lucis, three other "personal resurrection stations" are offered for personal reflection, stressing the Marian, Pauline and Johannnine dimensions of the Christian life.
The Risen Lord Appears to His Mother, Mary
The Scriptures are silent about any encounter between the Risen Lord
and His mother on the Day of Resurrection. Many spiritual traditions,
among them the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola, lead
faithful Christians in a meditation about this consoling and touching
scene. Mary is the first and the model disciple. She accompanied the
Lord from His birth, in His maturity and His ministry, through His
death and resurrection. She enjoys the light and company of her Son,
as do we on our faith journey.
The Risen Lord Appears to Paul on the Road
In the Acts of the Apostles, Luke three times narrates the story of the
revelation of the Risen Lord to Paul on the road to Damascus (see Acts
9: 1-19; 22: 3-16 and 26: 2-18). We can readily identify with the
Apostle Paul who never saw the earthly Jesus face-to-face. We can
also heartily resonate with the challenging words of the Risen Lord:
"Get up now, and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you for this
purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness of what you have
seen and what you will be shown" (Acts 26: 16).
The Risen Lord Assures All Beloved Disciples
The author of the fourth gospel concludes his witness to the Risen
Lord with this faith-filled statement: "It is this disciple who testifies to
these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is
true. There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were
to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would
contain the books that would be written" (John 21: 24-25). In this
sense, the Gospel is unfinished. It continues to unfold among us,
beloved disciples of the Risen Lord in all times and places.
“Via Lucis” is a component of the award-winning program, Jubilee 2000, and was produced by the Archdiocese of Detroit for Year Five, “Living Christ’s Presence.”
The Via Lucis, a contemporary rediscovery of an ancient devotion, highlights the continuing presence of the Risen Lord, as we recognize His guidance and leadership through the events of our living. Walking the Via Lucis makes us lucifers, light bearers in a darkened world. This insight gives a whole new positive meaning to the name "Lucifer" that was limited previously only to Catholic literary traditions’ link with the name of the leader of the fallen angels. The devotional itinerary through the
Via Crucis and Via Lucis echoes the paschal mystery of the death-resurrection of Jesus Christ. Walking the Via Crucis and the Via Lucis helps us to identify with the Lord who always walks ahead, behind and all around us.
Amen! Alleluia!
Source: https://www.stgregoryspreston.org.uk/_webedit/uploaded-files/All%20Files/Stations%20of%20the%20Resurrection.pdf
The Risen Lord Appears to Mary Magdalen, Apostle to the Apostles
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "She turned around and saw Jesus there, but did not
know it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, 'Woman, why
are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?' She
thought He was the gardener and said to Him, 'Sir, if
you carried Him away, tell me where you laid Him,
and I will take Him.' Jesus said to her, 'Mary!" She
turned and said to Him in Hebrew, ‘Rabbouni,’ which
means Teacher. Jesus said to her, 'Stop holding on to
Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go
to My brothers and tell them, 'I am going to My
Father and your Father, to My God and your God.'
Mary of Magdalen went and announced to the
disciples, 'I have seen the Lord,' and what He told
her" (John 20: 14b-18).
Reflection: In the fourth gospel, Mary Magdalen is given the mission to carry the good
news of the resurrection to the apostles and the disciples. Mary had been in
the company of Jesus and His followers, and is given the privilege to
announce the hope of new life. She is known over the centuries as "the
apostle to the Apostles." Jesus called her by name, gave her the eyes of
faith, and called her to give a unique personal witness to her friends in the
faith community.
Silence
Prayer: God our Father, You will that all people to be saved and come to the
knowledge of Your truth. Send workers into Your great harvest that the
Gospel may be preached to every creature. May Your people, gathered
together by the word of life and strengthened by the power of the
sacraments, advance in the way of salvation. We ask this through Christ our
Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Not Magdalen, not Salome,
Nor James' own mother then delay
Embalming Jesus' corpse that day. Alleluia.
Fourth Station
The Risen Lord Appears on the Road to Emmaus
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "...It happened that while they were conversing and
debating, Jesus Himself drew near and walked with
them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing
Him.... And He said to them, 'Oh, how foolish you are!
How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets
spoke! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should
suffer these things and enter into His glory?' Then
beginning with Moses and all the prophets, He
interpreted to them what referred to Him in all the
scriptures" (Luke 24: 15, 25-27).
Reflection: The Emmaus road is the story of the Christian life. These disciples were
walking away from Jerusalem and the apostolic faith community in defeat
and dejection. They had lost hope. We too, have moments of despair and
desolation. The Risen Lord Jesus accompanies us along the road, even
when we are moving in the wrong direction. Only the Lord can "break
open" the Word in order to help us understand the stories of our lives,
especially suffering, and read them in harmony with the pattern of the
Scriptures. Only the Lord can rekindle our energy and our resolve to devote
ourselves to what is most important in life.
Silence
Prayer: Lord God, as disciples on our pilgrimage, we implore Jesus Christ: stay with
us, Lord. Open our hearts to true conversion and, as we have known the
Lord in the breaking of the bread, so make us witnesses of a new humanity,
renewed, reconciled and at peace in Your love. Send us as heralds of the
repentance and forgiveness You offer to all in the name of Jesus, who lives
and reigns with You, forever and ever. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
That night the apostles met in fear;
Amidst them came the Lord most dear,
And said My peace be on all here. Alleluia.
Fifth Station
The Risen Lord is Recognized in the Breaking of the Bread
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: " ...They urged Him, 'Stay with us, for it is nearly
evening and the day is almost over.' So He went in to
stay with them. And it happened that while He was
with them at table, He took bread, said the blessing,
broke it, and gave it to them. With that, their eyes
were opened and they recognized Him, but He
vanished from their sight. Then they said to each
other, 'Were not our hearts burning within us while He
spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to
us’" (Luke 24: 29-32).
Reflection: The encounter on the road leads to the table, the breaking of the bread and
the total gift of self. Recognition of the Risen Lord is always linked with
the Eucharist. At the heart of our Christian life is this meal of Word and
Eucharist which we celebrate every Sunday. The Risen Lord presides over
all our journeys, wishing to set our hearts on fire in generous service to all
people in need, near and far. The gift we have received is the gift we share.
Humbly, we set out on the various roads of our lives to respond to all the
hungers of the human family.
Silence
Prayer: You are truly blessed, O God of holiness: You accompany us with love as
we journey through life. Blessed too, is Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is
present among us, and whose love gathers us together. As once He did for
His disciples, Christ now opens the Scriptures for us and breaks the bread.
May the Eucharist we celebrate guide us to the fullness of Christ's life. We
pray in the power of Christ's Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
When Thomas, first the tidings heard,
How they had seen the Risen Lord,
He doubted the disciples' word. Alleluia.
Sixth Station
The Risen Lord Appears to the Community of Disciples
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "'Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise
in your hearts? Look at My hands and My feet, that it
is I Myself. Touch Me and see, because a ghost does
not have flesh and bones as you can see I have,' And as
He said this, He showed them His hands and His feet"
(Luke 24: 38-40).
Reflection: The disciples on the road to Emmaus quickly returned to the other disciples
in Jerusalem with "burning hearts." Their despair had been reversed and
they were eager to convince the others that Jesus was alive. Jesus the Christ
is always eager to gather the community of disciples at the table of faith and
to show them that He has risen with His wounds glorified. All our wounds
will one day be glorified. We seek to understand how the Risen Lord
invites us to be "wounded healers," recognizing now that the Lord desires
us to be ambassadors of reconciliation, while we ourselves are being
forgiven and healed.
Silence
Prayer: God of unchanging power and light, look with favor and mercy on the
entire community of Your Church. Bring lasting salvation to the human
family, so that the world may see the fallen lifted up, the old made new, and
all things brought to perfection, through Him who is our origin, our Lord
Jesus Christ who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
My wounded side, O Thomas see;
Behold My hands, My feet, said He
Not faithless, but believing be. Alleluia.
Seventh Station
The Risen Lord Breathes Peace and Gives the Power to Forgive
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them,
'Peace be with you'... The disciples rejoiced when they
saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, 'Peace be with
you. As the Father has sent Me, so I send you.' And
when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to
them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive
are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are
retained'" (John 20: 19b, 20b-23).
Reflection: Even though the doors of the Upper Room were bolted shut, the Risen Lord
pierced through all fear and united the hearts of the disciples with the gift of
peace. Deep inner peace is the root and source of the peace and joy that the
world cannot give. The Risen Lord calls us to seek peace always through a
non-violent commitment to conflict resolution and thus transform the world,
relationship by relationship.
Silence
Prayer: God of perfect peace, violence and cruelty can have no part of You. May
those who are at peace with one another hold fast to the good will that
unites them; may those who are enemies forget their hatred and be healed.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
No longer Thomas then denied,
He saw the feet, the hands, the side;
You are my Lord and God, he cried, Alleluia!
Eighth Station
The Risen Lord Strengthens the Faith of Thomas
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "Thomas…was not with them when Jesus came....
Thomas said, 'Unless I see the mark of the nails in His
hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my
hand into His side, I will not believe'...Jesus came...and
stood in their midst and said, 'Peace be with you.'
Then He said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here and see
My hands, and bring your hand and put it into My side,
and do not be unbelieving, but believe'…Blessed are
those who do not see and yet believe." (John 20: 24-
29).
Reflection: The story of Thomas is important because it is through Thomas’ example
that we realize that doubt can be a part of faith. Too easily we call him
"Doubting Thomas,” and forgetting that after examining the nail marks, he
fully embraced the Risen One as his Lord and Savior. Thomas' doubt was
transformed into a lively faith. We too, are called to believe, knowing full
well that our faith may be tested by doubt and fear. As disciples who desire
an ever-deeper faith, we are patient and understanding with those who are
struggling, searching and seeking like Thomas.
Silence
Prayer: Heavenly Father and God of mercy, we no longer look for Jesus among the
dead, for He is alive and has become the Lord of life. From the waters of
death You raise us up with Him and renew Your gift of life within us.
Increase in our minds and hearts the risen life we share with Christ and help
us to grow as Your people toward the fullness of eternal life with You. We
ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
How blest are they who have not seen,
And yet whose faith has constant been
For they eternal life shall win. Alleluia!
Ninth Station
The Risen Lord Eats with the Disciples on the Shore of Tiberias
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "Jesus said to them, 'Bring some of the fish you just
caught.' So Simon Peter went over and dragged the net
ashore full of one hundred fifty-three large fish. Even
though there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus
said to them, 'Come, have breakfast.' And none of His
disciples dared to ask Him, 'Who are You?' because
they realized it was the Lord" (John 21: 10-12).
Reflection: After the crucifixion, the apostles returned to their former way of life. Out
on the familiar Sea of Galilee, these expert fishers find themselves
ineffective and baffled because not even a single fish was caught. From the
shore, the Risen Lord guides them and directs their nets until they are filled
to overflowing. As He prepares breakfast for them, He nourishes their
hearts and promises them that they can also be fed by making disciples in
His name. He calls them to an entirely new way of fishing—fishing for
people.
Silence
Prayer: Father in heaven, author of all truth, a people once in darkness has listened
to Your Word and followed Your Son as He rose from the tomb. Hear the
prayer of this newborn people and strengthen Your Church to answer Your
call. May we rise and come forth into the light of day to stand in Your
presence until eternity dawns. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
On Sunday morn at break of day
The sad disciples went their way
To see the tomb where Jesus lay. Alleluia.
Tenth Station
The Risen Lord Forgives Peter and Entrusts Him to Feed His Sheep
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon
Peter, 'Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than
these?'... Peter was distressed that Jesus had said to him
a third time, 'Do you love Me?' and he said to Him,
'Lord, You know everything, You know that I love
You.' Jesus said to him, 'Feed my sheep.... Follow Me'
" (John 21: 15, 17b, 19b).
Reflection: The Risen Lord directs His attention to Peter whose embarrassing three-fold
denial was still ringing in his heart. The questions posed by Jesus help
Peter to find reconciliation and to embrace his new mission to tend and feed
the sheep. Their encounter reminds us that forgiveness is always available,
even for the most serious of mistakes we can make. This warm embrace of
forgiveness strengthens our resolve to be reconcilers and healers in the
Spirit of Jesus. Only love can overcome guilt and deception. Only love and
forgiveness can make us whole.
Silence
Prayer: Father, fill our hearts with the fire of Your love and the desire to ensure
justice for our brothers and sisters. By sharing the good things You give us,
may we secure justice and equality for every human being, an end to all
division, and a human society built on love and peace. Grant this through
Christ our Lord.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
An angel clad in white they see,
Who sat and spoke unto the three,
Your Lord has gone to Galilee, Alleluia!
Eleventh Station
The Risen Lord Sends the Disciples into the World
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "'Go therefore, and make disciples of all the nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe
all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with
you always, until the end of the age'" (Matthew 28: 19-
20).
Reflection: From the mountaintop, the Risen Lord gives the "Great Commission" to the
disciples to reach out to the ends of the earth. We realize that we are the
recipients of this faith-filled mission: our ancestors embraced the faith of the
apostles, who were the original witnesses of the resurrection. The greatest
response we can give to such a legacy is our dedication to a new
evangelization of our contemporary culture. We must allow the Risen Lord
to reinvigorate our whole way of living, helping us to re-evaluate every
aspect of our lives with the values of the Kingdom of God.
Silence
Prayer: God of all creation, whose mighty power raised Jesus from the dead, be
present to this community of disciples whom You have called to the hope of
a glorious inheritance among the saints. Strengthen us in the power of the
Spirit to go and make disciples of all nations, to obey everything that Jesus
Christ has commanded us, and to know that He is with us always until the
end of the age, interceding on our behalf, living and reigning with You in
the power of the Holy Spirit, now and forevermore. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
And we with Holy Church unite,
As evermore is just and right,
in glory to the King of light. Alleluia.
Twelfth Station
The Risen Lord Ascends into Heaven
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "So then the Lord Jesus, after He spoke to them, was
taken up into heaven and took His seat at the right hand
of God. But they went forth and preached everywhere,
while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the
word through accompanying signs" (Mark 16: 19-20).
Reflection: The Scriptures do not portray the Ascension as a day of sadness. While still
looking up at the skies, the disciples were consoled by the continuing
presence of the Lord. They return to the familiar surroundings of the Upper
Room, with Mary, the mother of the Lord, to pray in anticipation of their
mission. In this "original novena," we continue to implore the Risen Lord to
be the center of our lives and to keep us focused as a jubilant pilgrim people.
Silence
Prayer: Eternal God, clothe us now with Your power. With the eyes of our hearts
enlightened, may we come to understand the immeasurable greatness of
Your power at work in us who believe. In that strength, may we boldly
pronounce the Good News of our salvation to everyone. We ask this through
Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Our humble thanks to God let's show
And fitting praise on Him bestow
For Paschal blessings here below. Alleluia.
Thirteenth Station
Mary and the Disciples Keep Vigil in the Upper Room for the Spirit's Advent
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You! Because
by the Wood of the Cross and the Light of the
Resurrection, You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "When they entered the city, they went to the upper
room where they were staying.... All [the apostles]
devoted themselves with one accord to prayer, together
with some women, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, and
His brothers" (Acts 1: 13a, 14).
Reflection: Throughout the history of the Church, there have been apostolic movements
dedicated to prayerful contemplation, and others resulting in transforming
action. As we have crossed the threshold into a new millennium, we look to
the "Upper Room" as a symbolic place where we return over and over again,
so that we can become "contemplatives in action." As persons who are both
prayerful and energetic in service to the Gospel, we must always keep vigil
for the advent of the Risen Lord, with the flame of faith alive in our hearts.
Only the Lord can refresh our spirits and renew us in the ministries that flow
from our Baptism and Confirmation.
Silence
Prayer: Father most holy, see Your Church gathered here in prayerful worship like
the first disciples and Mary in the Upper Room. Grant that we may
accomplish, in the joy of the Holy Spirit, all that You give us to do in the
world. May we gladly share in Christ's sufferings so as to rejoice when His
glory is revealed. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
On this most holy day of days,
To God your hearts and voices raise,
In laud and jubilee and praise. Alleluia!
Fourteenth Station
The Risen Lord Sends the Holy Spirit
All: We adore You, O Christ and we praise You!
Because by the Wood of the Cross and the
Light of the Resurrection,
You have redeemed the world!
Reading: "... Suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a
strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house. Then
there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted
and came to rest on each one of them. And they were
all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in
different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them to
proclaim"
(Acts 2: 2-4).
Reflection: The power of the Holy Spirit drives the disciples from the Upper Room into
the streets and marketplace. The Spirit compels them to take the message
everywhere, in places familiar and unfamiliar, not stopping until they reach
the ends of the world. We have been clothed with the same Spirit. We are
called to be evangelizers and witnesses, near and far, wherever we go. The
Spirit always goes before us, preparing the way and strengthening our hearts
to be generous servants of the Risen Lord who ever guides us. Pentecost is
an enduring and continuing event. We implore the Holy Spirit to renew the
face of the earth by renewing us.
Silence
Prayer: Father in heaven, through this spiritual journey, You have reminded us of
the fullness of the mystery of Your revealed love. See Your people gathered
in prayer, open to receive the Spirit's flame. May it come to rest in our
hearts and disperse the divisions of word and tongue. With one voice and
one song, may we praise Your name in joy and thanksgiving. Grant this
through Christ our Lord, and in the power of the Spirit, both now and
forevermore. Amen.
All: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
O sons and daughters of the Lord,
The King of glory, King adored,
From death to life has been restored. Alleluia.
Conclusion
Reading: " ... Jesus Himself, through them, sent forth from east
to west the sacred and imperishable proclamation of
eternal salvation. Amen" (Mark 16:8, the Shorter
Ending ).
Reflection: Through the Via Lucis, we have shared our pilgrim
journey with the Risen Lord. As servants and
witnesses of Christ, let us now pray in the way our
Savior taught us:
All: “Our Father…”
Lord, may everything we do, begin with Your
inspiration, continue with Your help, and reach
perfection under Your guidance. We ask this through
Christ, our Risen Lord. Amen.
Prayer:
Sign of Peace
Personal Stations of the Via Lucis
As a coda to the pilgrimage of the Via Lucis, three other "personal resurrection stations" are offered for personal reflection, stressing the Marian, Pauline and Johannnine dimensions of the Christian life.
The Risen Lord Appears to His Mother, Mary
The Scriptures are silent about any encounter between the Risen Lord
and His mother on the Day of Resurrection. Many spiritual traditions,
among them the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola, lead
faithful Christians in a meditation about this consoling and touching
scene. Mary is the first and the model disciple. She accompanied the
Lord from His birth, in His maturity and His ministry, through His
death and resurrection. She enjoys the light and company of her Son,
as do we on our faith journey.
The Risen Lord Appears to Paul on the Road
In the Acts of the Apostles, Luke three times narrates the story of the
revelation of the Risen Lord to Paul on the road to Damascus (see Acts
9: 1-19; 22: 3-16 and 26: 2-18). We can readily identify with the
Apostle Paul who never saw the earthly Jesus face-to-face. We can
also heartily resonate with the challenging words of the Risen Lord:
"Get up now, and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you for this
purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness of what you have
seen and what you will be shown" (Acts 26: 16).
The Risen Lord Assures All Beloved Disciples
The author of the fourth gospel concludes his witness to the Risen
Lord with this faith-filled statement: "It is this disciple who testifies to
these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is
true. There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were
to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would
contain the books that would be written" (John 21: 24-25). In this
sense, the Gospel is unfinished. It continues to unfold among us,
beloved disciples of the Risen Lord in all times and places.
“Via Lucis” is a component of the award-winning program, Jubilee 2000, and was produced by the Archdiocese of Detroit for Year Five, “Living Christ’s Presence.”
The Via Lucis, a contemporary rediscovery of an ancient devotion, highlights the continuing presence of the Risen Lord, as we recognize His guidance and leadership through the events of our living. Walking the Via Lucis makes us lucifers, light bearers in a darkened world. This insight gives a whole new positive meaning to the name "Lucifer" that was limited previously only to Catholic literary traditions’ link with the name of the leader of the fallen angels. The devotional itinerary through the
Via Crucis and Via Lucis echoes the paschal mystery of the death-resurrection of Jesus Christ. Walking the Via Crucis and the Via Lucis helps us to identify with the Lord who always walks ahead, behind and all around us.
Amen! Alleluia!
Source: https://www.stgregoryspreston.org.uk/_webedit/uploaded-files/All%20Files/Stations%20of%20the%20Resurrection.pdf
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