Review 2025.04.004
Reviewers Note: It is the beginning of 2025 and one of the skills I desire to grow in is that of writing book reviews (having never done this before). I am doing this so I can better hone my writing (and reading) skills as I seek to think more critically about the books I am reading. I am sharing on Goodreads for my own personal development. I know this will be something I am always growing in so if you actually read these, please be patient with me as I develop this skill. I will also receive constructive criticism if you desire to help me become a better writer (and reader). I plan to use this disclaimer for the entire 2025 year.
Station to Station by Gary Jansen
171 Pages
I had read about the Stations of the Cross and seen both the biblical and non-biblical versions. I went to Amazon and found this book. I read this book the week prior to Good Friday and found it very helpful. I thought about reading it again on Good Friday but I also wanted to go to Mass on Good Friday to experience the stations of the cross in person so I did not carve out the time to read. This book works through the biblical stations. The Mass I went to was the non-biblical stations.
There is a lot of imagination needed in this experience. Imagine Jesus in the garden and imagine Him talking to Pontus Pilot. You are supposed to imagine the sights, sounds, smells, and anything else that comes to mind about the scene you are entering into. I struggle with imagination because it is hard for me to form pictures in my mind. I love words and the thoughts that form from them but pictures have always been difficult.
The author does ask the same reflection questions at the end of each station. That was why I considered reading the book again on Good Friday so that I might reflect more deeply on the words. I agree with the author that the stations of the cross are something we should experience on a regular basis. I have not determined how or if I will do this.
If you desire to grow in liturgical knowledge and experience, then I can recommend this book.