Expert: Charlie B - 12/1/2007

Question
Hello. I am a Protestant, but I have attended a Catholic mass around Christmas-time called The Stations Of The Cross. I'm just wondering why Station-14 (Jesus is placed in the tomb) is the last station when the resurrection of Christ is so important?
Thank you so much.

Answer
Kathy,
You ask a very popular and common question that many people are curious about, so I'm pleased to offer you sources and my opinion.
It would seem to many Protestants (of which I was for 40 years) that the last thing to contemplate in prayer and meditation is the resurrection, not the placing of Christ in the Tomb.  
Indeed, here's one Roman Catholic church that has installed the 15th station, the Resurrection:  http://www.stanthonycatholic.org/stations_of_the_cross.htm

It seemed that the idea gained favor back in the early '90's and has been discussed within the Church for a long time.  So, Kathy you're on to something ...
Given your gender, let me recommend a few useful sites to you and your journey:  
www.lighthousecatholicmedia.com
www.catholiccity.com
www.dads.org
If you'd like a short list of books to read or review, let me know.  A more full answer is contained in two brief booklets:  Inner Healing through Meditations on The Stations of the Cross, Rev. Robert DeGrandis, S.S.J. {available at Bookstore, 108 Aberdeen St., Lowell, MA 01850 617.454.7408) or The Holy Way to the Cross with Meditations on the Passion of Jesus Christ, Dumb Ox Press, Beloit, Wisconsin, copyright 1906 web: http://www.love2learn.net/favsupp.htm).

The bottom-line answer to your question is that while the Vatican has not officially changed over 1,700 years of doctrine, the idea of adding the 15th station is being practiced and observed in many Catholic households and churches...And, on the 14th station of being placed in the Tomb, as you finish and walk out to bright sunshine or dark clouds, let the lifting of the resurrection guide your steps in the joy of knowing, loving and serving our Lord.
To one thing we certainly agree 100%:  the Resurrection of Christ is the pinnacle, most important moment in church history for man's salvation. Thanks for your question --
PS- if you haven't seen Mel Gibson's Passion of the Christ, go see it right away or rent it.  If you haven't seen the new movie, Bella, go see it soon.  For a movie not to see or have children see, don't see "Golden Compass."  If you're curious as to why, email info@breedingtrust.com.
God bless,
Charlie
www.breedingsuccess.com