Praying the Stations of the Cross: Finding Hope in a Weary Land

by Margaret Adams Parker, Katherine Sonderegger

An ancient practice strengthens our awareness of God’s healing presence.  “Suffering, sorrow, injustice, confusion, and death can touch any of us, at any time . . . the Stations can offer consolation and comfort when we are grieving; healing and restoration when we are parched; inspiration and guidance when we are searching or lost or simply beset by the turmoil and temptation, isolation and insecurity that unsettle all our lives.” —From the introduction Praying the Stations of the Cross  offers a life-transforming spiritual practice. Grounded in Scripture, the Stations remind readers of the overarching power of God’s love for all people and our steadfast hope for redemption, a sure and true comfort in the face of pain and sorrow. 

Artist Margaret Adams Parker and theologian Katherine Sonderegger make the Stations of the Cross accessible for those new to the practice and offer compelling insight to those with long familiarity. Equally useful for individuals, groups, and congregations,  Praying the Stations of the Cross  can be used as an ongoing spiritual practice, a service offered in times of sorrow, struggle, or conflict, or a Lenten devotion. 

Genres: Religion

128 pages, Hardcover

Published October 15, 2019

Reviews

[David Hindman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the years I have used several guides for praying the Stations of the Cross. This is by far the best I have encountered. The combination of thoughtful, vivid and graphically compelling woodcuts for each station, crafted by artist Margaret Adams Parker, a liturgical pattern of scripture, silence, Taize chant, and a meditation for each station written by theologian Katherine Sonderegger (both Adams and Sonderegger are on the faculty at Virginia Theological Seminary outside DC), make for a deeply powerful encounter with Jesus' last hours. The text is complemented by afterwords from both Adams and Sonderegger, as well as a helpful annotated bibliography and suggestions for how the series could be used in a local church.

I read and pondered one station each day; this is a treasure to be used every year.

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will state that I have a strong personal bias to any work of Peggy Parker and Kate Sonderegger, resulting from the blessed experience of having been taught by both during my time at Virginia Theological Seminary. Setting that connection aside, though, I can still say without hesitation that this is a beautiful resource and reflection - through word, prayer and art - on the Stations of the Cross. As one who preaches often and who is always looking for ways to enrich the liturgical experience of my congregation, this is a book I will return to often!

[Nick Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a perfect Lenten book, both for personal growth and for leading others. The art is tremendous and thought-provoking. And now I find that I really will have to read Sonderegger’s systematic theology. Why do female Episcopalian scholars get so wise as they age? Ellen Davis, Fleming Rutledge, and now Sonderegger. I’m sure I’m missing others that I hope I’m being formed similarly to.

[Trevor Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great introduction, beautiful prayers hauntingly poignant woodcut stations, and final thoughts by artist and author. Very worth meditating upon.