Stations of the Cross at York Minster

The Stations of the Cross exhibition is now on display in Dean’s Park, in the grounds of York Minster, featuring artwork created by pupils at St Peter’s School.

The ceramic Stations of the Cross were originally created by Year 9 pupils at St Peter’s in February 2020, but the exhibition was cancelled after government restrictions advised against anything which might encourage people to congregate, even in outdoor spaces.

Twelve months later, the Stations of the Cross are finally on display, and visitors and passers-by are encouraged to walk the Way of the Cross and reflect on Christ’s death and resurrection.

There are nine Stations of the Cross, starting with the moment when Jesus was condemned to death and concluding with Jesus rising from the tomb. Each Station is accompanied by an interpretation panel, including a passage from the Bible, aids to reflection and a prayer.

The first eight stations are currently on display in Dean’s Park and the ninth station, which symbolises the Resurrection, will be added once the Easter Garden is in place prior to Palm Sunday on 28 March.

The pupils who created the Stations are now in Year 10 at St Peter’s School, and are thrilled to see their artwork on public display.

Scarlett Ellis, one of the pupils, said: “I am very proud to have been chosen to display my ceramic artwork at the Minster, representing St Peter’s School.”

Mr Jeremy W alker , Head Master of St Peter’ s School, Y ork, said: “I am so proud of the pupils’ excellent and thought-provoking work which I have enjoyed seeing in Dean’s Park. This is a great example of the close relationship between York Minster and St Peter’s and a sign of hope as we approach Easter and look forward to happier days ahead.”

The Revd Canon Michael Smith, Canon Pastor at York Minster said: “The Stations of the Cross created by pupils at St Peter’s are both beautiful and thought provoking. I hope that lots of people of all ages will use them in Dean’s Park, or on our website, to reflect on some of the challenges life brings. Particularly for those feeling lonely and fragile after this past year, I hope the Stations of the Cross will bring reassurance that we are not alone and there is always hope, hope of new life, hope of discovering new ways of living.”

Those who are unable to travel to York are encouraged to join the pilgrimage online. York Minster will be creating a series of nine reflective videos, including a Bible reading, a piece of music, a short reflection and a prayer. The videos will be shared every day from 26 March on their YouTube channel and website: yorkminster.org/whats-on/event/stations-of-the-cross-online-2/