I have wondered what makes them come? What has drawn me to that place? I think, at least for me it has to do with it being different and perhaps somehow more authentic. The typical Way of the Cross or Stations of the Cross confined to the nave has never really appealed to me. Sure I have led many a folks through that liturgy and somehow found it “meaningful”. However, when I joined the first group to journey through once forgotten stations that had been formed by Jesuits in 1926, the entire liturgy took on new meaning.
Manresa was originally a haven for clergymen, business men and other dignitaries of the day. However, like many good things, times changed. In 1995 the retreat house and property were sold. The edifice was transformed into a residence for those needing assisted living. At some point before the turn of the century, the stations were rediscovered and an effort made to resurrect their usage. I was among the first group of pilgrims to walk in the way at the dawn of a new era in 2000.
Each church, and civic organization was asked to be responsible for one of fourteen stations. At the time, I served as rector of St. Philip’s, Annapolis; we were station number two. One person from each group carries a cross approximately 7′ high from one station to their own. Then the traditional reading and prayer. “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?” is split up and sung at different points along the way. This spiritual discipline draws 200-300 people each year – Baptists, Episcopalians, Lutherans, Roman Catholics, United Methodists, and a Kiwanis Club. Young, old and middle aged folks respectfully gather at the foot of the steps of the large house. We then meander down a path that opens up to the Severn River. This year I saw a priest’s wife pulling her two children in a wagon. In the past I have seen people on walkers and youth groups.
This was the thirteen anniversary of The Way of the Cross @ Manresa. The only time I did not make it was 2004, the year of my sabbatical.
So, why do I continue? It has do with being outdoors in nature and realizing all that transpires at each station would have originally been done outside. Breathing fresh air, taking in the signs of spring, budding tress and flowers along with the serenity of the river can’t be topped. The stations are prayed come rain or shine. I have always hoped for rain or drizzle and a muddy path. Yes, it sounds crazy, but I always remember Mark 15:33 “When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.” A little inclement weather adds to the ambiance of the occasion. But not today! The sun shined brightly and a gently breeze swept across our faces and all was well.
I come to remember the Jesus we follow was once alive in the flesh, breathing, walking, talking as I do, as we do. Praying The Way of the Cross with friends and strangers reminds me that God sent a Son for everyone who would believe. In the midst of that one hour we are not separated by our peculiar doctrines and varied interpretations of Scripture. We are one. Jesus offered this prayer to God -
“The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” John 17:22
If only we could maintain this image of oneness off the trail. With over 34,000 Christian denominations, being content with this annual moment in time is sufficient for me. That’s why I continue to come – we are all one.
