We Were There: A Way of the Cross

We Were There is a dramatic Way of the Cross, based on John Paul II's Scriptural Way of the Cross, first prayed by the Pope on March 29, 1991. Beginning in the Garden of Gethsemane and concluding at the tomb, this new work offers a powerful, yet personal rendition of the Passion of Jesus. The purpose of this work is to renew a time honored devotion—which for some has become too intellectual and mechanical. We Were There makes the journey come alive through its personal and dramatic style. Its easy-to-follow format leads the individual through each station: the traditional refrain of "We Adore You, O Christ" announces the station; a Scripture passage is read; a character from the Scripture passage is named and then a monologue is rendered; a short prayer is recited by the congregation that responds to what was revealed in the monologue, and applies the character's meditation to modern everyday life. A verse of "Were You There?" concludes each station. Intended for both individual or group use, the spirit of We Were There is one of participation and emotional involvement. Suitable as a passion play, it also provides a new way of engaging youth in religious rituals and devotions. Although it differs from the traditional stations, this versatile new Way of the Cross provides an exciting alternative to the traditional Way of the Cross in church that can easily be imagined by the assembly, or created in tableau form for parish Lenten devotions. It is the perfect way youth can contribute to parish life. Whether it is done simply by presider/lectors or more elaborately by acting out the roles, We Were There revives interest in this very ancient devotion of the Church.