The Way of the Cross is an ancient tradition dating in some form to the fourth century. The walk as we know it today emerged in the Middle Ages. On Good Friday, the Friday before Easter Sunday, pilgrims would walk a path characterized by 14 ‘stations’ depicting moments and places of importance during Jesus’ last walk from condemnation to death. The ancient practice of walking the Way of the Cross, sometimes referred to as a pilgrimage in prayer, meditation and song, allows participants to contemplate the major episodes of this historic event.
Open to all, the Calgary walk is both a pilgrimage and an act of solidarity with all who have suffered because of war, political and economic instability, and climate change; with the poor, the exploited and the many who are thirsty and seeking compassion and justice in the world today. Each year the walk winds through the Beltline of Caglary with 14 stops (stations), each chosen for the cause it supports with related injustices participants can meditate on.