The Stations of the Cross are among the most profound devotions in Catholic tradition, inviting the faithful to reflect on Christ’s suffering and His gift of salvation. In Catholic schools, these sacred images can become powerful teachers, shaping the spirits and character of students. When designed with children in mind, the Stations are not merely depictions of sorrowful moments—they become vivid lessons in courage, compassion, and perseverance that speak directly to young hearts in ways they can grasp and remember.
At Rohn & Associates Design, we create powerful scenes that bring Christ and His Blessed Mother to life so children can truly connect with them. Guided by input from church leadership, each expression, gesture, and color is chosen to balance the sorrow of the Passion with the joy of the Resurrection, resulting in vibrant images that transport young viewers into the experience. The figures are scaled to a child’s size so that as students move from station to station, they feel they are walking alongside Christ, entering the mystery of His path in a manner that is both reverent and immediate.
Every element is carefully considered—from posture and gaze to surrounding space—so the Stations encourage reflection, understanding, and a sense of closeness to Christ. We pay attention to how children witness these moments, how their eyes move across the imagery, and how the scenes flow from one Station to the next, creating a visual and spiritual rhythm. The art itself supports students' engagement, helping them experience Christ's journey in a way that fosters participation beyond the chapel walls and leaves a lasting impression on their faith.
For children, the visual language of sacred art often speaks more clearly than words. Veronica’s simple act of mercy shines with kindness. Mary’s steadfast presence radiates bravery. Christ’s resolve to rise again reveals resilience and strength. The final Station, sometimes called the 15th Station of the Resurrection, shows the women encountering the risen Lord at the empty tomb. This assures young learners that suffering is not the end. Over time, the Stations help students grasp that their own crosses—whether small struggles or greater challenges—can be carried with trust in God.
We designed youth-focused Stations of the Cross for the chapel at St. Gabriel Catholic School in Austin, Texas, carefully integrating a rosary garden with statues of children. We also conceptualized a set at Seton LaSalle Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, incorporating stained glass featuring saints chosen by the classes. In both cases, the response has been inspiring: children are drawn back to these images again and again, discovering in them not just a way to pray, but a way to live their values and beliefs.
These Stations, presented in ways that are accessible to students, offer Catholic schools and their communities an enduring gift. Children may forget the details of a lesson, but they will never forget the face of Christ looking back at them or the embrace of His Mother who suffers alongside Him. Such imagery lingers in memory, nurturing a lifelong relationship with Christ long after graduation.
