Awake Celebrates Easter with Way of Light Prayer Service
By Catherine Burke-Redys
Guest Writer
Last week, Awake celebrated Easter by praying the Via Lucis, or Way of Light. This devotion, similar to the Stations of the Cross, meditates on Jesus’ Resurrection appearances to his disciples through Pentecost. “The Prayer Team was moved by the idea of walking on a journey through resurrection, and we hope that these stations might serve as a source of hope as we seek those sparks of light and joy on our own journeys,” commented Awake Executive Director Sara Larson at the start of the service.
Survivor Mary O’Day introduced the Via Lucis with her reflection on hope and Resurrection. “As I was contemplating Christ’s death, I realized he was abused by holy men, verbally, physically, and sexually. Jesus experienced the deepest betrayal, not only from religious leaders, but also from close friends,” she said. “When I came to understand all this, I could finally allow myself to feel his comfort and his love.” She also expressed her hope for other victim-survivors: “May Jesus roll away the stone of your protective wall. May you hear him call your name and feel him gently reach his healing Spirit into your darkness. May you experience the inner peace Christ passes to his all of his followers. And may you believe and feel true joy in the light of his love and care.”
During each station, a verse of the ancient Easter hymn “O Sons and Daughters” followed a verse from the post-Resurrection narrative. For each station, a different light-filled image illustrated the station’s scriptural reference. We share with you the one of the stations and invite you to pray this devotion with Awake. The text of this service and a recording of the event, which is about 20 minutes long, are available below and ideal for personal prayer during the Easter season.
The First Station - Jesus Rises from the Dead
Scripture: “The angel of the Lord said to the women: ‘Do not be afraid! I know that you are seeking Jesus the crucified. He is not here, for He has been raised just as He said.” (Matthew 28: 5b-6a).
Verse: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
O sons and daughters, let us sing!
The King of heaven the glorious King,
Over death today rose triumphing, Alleluia!
Response: Alleluia!
Catherine Burke-Redys earned a Master of Theological Studies from Boston College's Clough School of Theology and Ministry. She taught theology in Catholic high schools for more than 12 years and is an active member of St. Raphael the Archangel in Raleigh, North Carolina.
