Embracing the Joy of Easter: Discovering the Stations of Light
As we approach the blessed season of Easter, a time of profound joy and renewal, we at Surrender Gifts are reminded of the boundless love and hope that the Resurrection of our Lord brings to our lives. In this spirit, we wish to share with you a beautiful and enriching devotion that celebrates the glory of the Resurrection: the Stations of Light, also known as the Via Lucis or the Stations of the Resurrection.
Understanding the Stations of Light
Most Catholics are familiar with the Stations of the Cross, prayed during Lent and especially on Good Friday. The Stations of Light continue that sacred journey—not with sorrow, but with joy. They follow the Risen Christ from Easter Sunday through to Pentecost, celebrating His appearances and the birth of the Church.
The Via Lucis is typically prayed during the Easter season, which begins on Easter Sunday and continues for 50 days until Pentecost. It’s a time of great rejoicing, and this devotion offers a beautiful way to remain spiritually grounded in the Resurrection during this season.
The Origins of the Via Lucis
Though rooted in early Christian tradition, the Via Lucis was formally developed only in the late 20th century. Inspired by scriptural events and early Church art—particularly inscriptions in the Catacombs of St Callistus in Rome—the devotion emerged as a natural complement to the Stations of the Cross. Recognising the need for a prayerful reflection on the light and hope of Easter, Church leaders introduced the Via Lucis as a way to meditate on the appearances of the Risen Christ. It was officially commended by the Vatican in the 1990s and has steadily gained popularity, offering a joyful framework for prayer in the Easter season.
The 14 Stations of Light
Each station invites us to walk alongside the disciples and witness the transformative encounters with the Risen Lord:
- Jesus rises from the dead
- The women find the empty tomb
- The Risen Lord appears to Mary Magdalene
- The Risen Lord appears on the road to Emmaus
- The Risen Lord is recognised in the breaking of the bread
- The Risen Lord appears to the disciples in Jerusalem
- The Risen Lord gives the disciples the power to forgive
- The Risen Lord strengthens the faith of Thomas
- The Risen Lord meets the disciples on the shore of Lake Tiberias
- The Risen Lord confers primacy on Peter
- The Risen Lord sends the disciples into the world
- The Risen Lord ascends into heaven
- Mary and the disciples wait in prayer
- The Risen Lord sends the Holy Spirit at Pentecost
Why Pray the Stations of Light?
The Stations of Light offer a meaningful way to remain spiritually engaged during Eastertide. They shift our gaze from the suffering of the Cross to the victory of the Resurrection, reminding us that Christ is alive and present in our daily lives. This devotion deepens our understanding of Scripture, strengthens our trust in God's promises, and renews our call to live as witnesses of the Resurrection. For those seeking hope, direction, or a way to truly live the Easter message, the Via Lucis provides a path of joy, light, and purpose.
Walking in the Light
This Easter, we encourage you to explore the Stations of Light and allow the joy of the Risen Christ to shape your heart, your prayer, and your daily life.
Get the book: Via Lucis - The Way of Light - this little book is an excellent resource to guide you through praying The Way of Light.
In faith and peace
Danita and Micaela
Surrender Gifts
A Catholic space of hope, devotion, and community.