Why Catholics walk Way of the Cross during Easter
By Valerian Khakayi, April 2, 2026As Thursday settles in and Kenyans begin preparing their hearts for Good Friday, there is one tradition that Catholic communities continue to observe with deep devotion: the Way of the Cross.
Known also as the Stations of the Cross, this timeless practice invites Catholics to walk prayerfully with Jesus Christ as He makes His way to Calvary.
You will see groups of Catholics walking together, carrying crosses or stopping at each station to pray and reflect. To some, it might look like walking and stopping at pictures. But to those who participate, it is a sacred journey, a way of stepping into the story of Jesus’ sacrifice.
At the heart of this devotion is Jesus Christ and His journey to the cross, a journey marked by suffering, love, and hope.
Way of the Cross
The Way of the Cross procession, also known as the Stations of the Cross, is one of the most significant traditions in the Christian liturgical calendar, particularly for Catholics, as it serves as a reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.
This devotional practice, annually observed on Good Friday, commemorates the path Jesus Christ walked on the day of His crucifixion, as He carried His cross to Calvary.
The devotion consists of a series of 14 stations, each representing a significant moment in Christ’s journey.
These moments include His condemnation to death, His encounters with various individuals along the way, and ultimately, His crucifixion and burial. It’s a time for Christians to reflect on Christ’s suffering and sacrifice, as well as to renew their faith through prayer and meditation.
Each station invites participants to pause and reflect on the spiritual and moral lessons derived from that moment in Christ’s journey. Many Christians participate in the procession, walking from station to station, either in churches or in outdoor settings, joining in prayer and song.
It is a powerful reminder of the ultimate act of love, where Jesus gave His life for the salvation of humanity.
In many countries across the world, particularly those with large Catholic populations, processions are organised, with the faithful walking through the streets in a powerful public display of devotion.
The Way of the Cross not only helps believers to commemorate the Passion of Christ but also serves as a call to emulate His humility, patience, and love for others. Through this tradition, Christians are reminded that even in the face of suffering, there is hope, redemption, and victory through Christ’s resurrection.
Why Catholics walk Way of the Cross
- To remember Jesus’ sacrifice
Walking the Way of the Cross helps believers remember what Jesus went through for humanity. It’s one thing to hear about His suffering in church or read it in the Bible, but another to walk from one station to another while praying and reflecting.
- To reflect on personal struggles
As they move from one station to the next, many think about their own crosses, the challenges they carry in life. Whether it’s job stress, family issues, school pressures, or health concerns, this devotion offers a space to place those struggles alongside Jesus’.
- To seek forgiveness and renewal
Good Friday is a moment of deep repentance for Catholics. Walking and praying the Way of the Cross becomes a way to ask God for forgiveness and for the grace to begin anew.
- To strengthen community faith
This devotion is not just individual, but it is communal. Priests and entire parishes walk together. This builds unity and reminds Catholics that they journey with Christ together, not alone.