stations of the cross

noun phrase

often capitalized S&C

1

: a series of usually 14 images or pictures especially in a church that represent the stages of Christ's passion and death

2

: a devotion involving commemorative meditation before the stations of the cross

Examples of stations of the cross in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Here, the staging can feel redundant, especially since it is burdened with foreshadowing and obvious symbolism: In case the bludgeoning was too subtle, Lucas’s version of the stations of the cross reaches a peak — or, more appropriately, a low — on Christmas Eve. —Elisabeth Vincentelli, New York Times, 25 Feb. 2024

The church will also offer private prayer and stations of the cross at 7 p.m. on Fridays. —Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 14 Feb. 2024

The events of the stations of the cross followed, ultimately leading to the crucifixion of Jesus. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 19 Jan. 2024

Advertisement McCartney’s thoughtful recollections in the book are accompanied by a couple of other essays, including a fine recitation of the stations of the cross by Harvard history professor and New Yorker contributor Jill Lepore. —Charles Kaiser, Washington Post, 2 July 2023

The procession stops to meditate on the stations of the cross, moments in the torture of Jesus as he is led to his crucifixion. —Greg Garrison | , al, 8 Apr. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined at sense 1