Question 1

Why is it called the "Non-Extreme" Way of the Cross?

Accepted Answer

There is also an "Extreme" Way of the Cross: a popular Polish initiative that seeks to unite the practice of the Stations of the Cross in Lent with the asceticism, sport and adventure of the anchorites of the desert. More info here: https://omnesmag.com/en/newsroom/experiencias/via-crucis-extreme/

Question 2

Who are the Men of St Joseph?

Accepted Answer

See https://www.mosji.org/welcome.php for the international organisation; https://msjuk.org for the Polish UK organisation; and https://www.mosj.co.uk/ for the English UK organisation.

Question 3

Will I get to have a turn at carrying the cross?

Accepted Answer

Hopefully, yes, but it might just be for 15 minutes, as the event has grown in attendance. You are welcome to bring a small cross of your own to carry, which might help you to focus on the prayers and which would provide an added witness to anyone we pass on the streets.

Question 4

Will there be any breaks?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there will be a chance to sit down for a short break at Rowland's Gill.

Question 5

Will I be able to keep up?

Accepted Answer

The group walks at a comfortable pace, rather than briskly, in order to preserve a solemn atmopshere. We also come to a stop for 5 minutes or so for each station.

Question 6

Are there any toilets?

Accepted Answer

There are toilets available at Our Lady of Czestochowa Polish Church and Chaplaincy in Newcastle. There are no toilets en route, but there are plenty of trees to hide behind ;-)

Question 7

Is this a fundraising event?

Accepted Answer

No. Whilst endurance is required, the primary focus is on prayer, rather than the physical challenge. The entry fee is to cover costs.

Question 8

What is the format?

Accepted Answer

During the 30-50-minute stretches between stations, we will take turns remaining silent and praying vocally together. Prayers will include: Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary; Chaplet of Divine Mercy; Marian songs, chants and litanies; Liturgy of the Hours; and intercessory prayers.

Question 9

Will there be a Mass at the start or finish?

Accepted Answer

No, Mass is not currently planned

Question 10

Will confessions be available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available en route. We will have at least 1 priest with us. We're hoping to make confessions available in Polish, English and Malayalam.

Question 11

What if I can't make it to the end?

Accepted Answer

We will have at least 1 first aider with us and we plan to leave a car at the midway point.  Please arrange for a family member or friend to leave their phone on overnight and to be on standby to get out of bed and pick up any injured/weary pilgrim by car and to take them home if needed.

Question 12

What about safeguarding?

Accepted Answer

Minors must be accompanied by their parents or guardians at all times.

Question 13

Do you need any help?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we need help keeping the group together, especially when crossing roads. Additional first aiders are also welcome. If you would like to get involved please contact Jack or Paul (contact details above).

Question 14

How many people are likely to attend?

Accepted Answer

Probably 40 to 60, with about a quarter of them being children.

Question 15

What will be provided for breakfast?

Accepted Answer

Polish sausages and refreshments. (If you are not eating meat during Lent you might wish to bring a substitute.)

Question 16

Can I get a refund if I can no longer make it?

Accepted Answer

Due to the reservation of transport, a refund will only be possible in the event of cancellation at least two weeks before the event. Any financial surplus will be donated to the parish of Our Lady of Częstochowa and/or to support the activities of Men of St Joseph groups in England and Wales.

Overnight Way of the Cross from Consett to Newcastle

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