2026 Way of the Cross for Peace and Justice
Join us on Good Friday to commemorate the Passion of Christ with a public Way of the Cross through Washington, D.C., stopping to pray at public and private institutions. Together we will reflect on the suffering of Christ through the lens of our modern world while praying for peace and justice.
WHEN: Friday, April 3
START TIME: 12pm Noon
WHERE: Meet at the National Archives, 700 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC (across from the Archives–Navy Memorial Metro station)
People of all faiths and traditions are welcome to join this public prayer witness.
About the Way of the Cross
The Way of the Cross for Peace and Justice is a prayerful public witness that connects the suffering of Jesus with the suffering experienced by people around the world today. At each station we will reflect on pressing global and national challenges, including war and violence, forced migration, economic inequality and the climate crisis, while lifting up signs of hope and solidarity. Together we pray, walk and witness for a more just and peaceful world.
Resources
The following materials are available to help individuals and communities participate in the Way of the Cross. Please feel free to share the materials broadly:
- Flyer
- Stations and Route Map
- 2026 Way of the Cross Script
- Accompanying slideshow to use with script if you can’t join us in person
These resources can also be used by local communities wanting to organize their own Way of the Cross.
Event Details
The Way of the Cross will begin at the National Archives and proceed to several sites in downtown Washington, D.C., that symbolize systems of power and decision-making that affects global peace and justice.
Participants will walk together between stations, stopping for scripture, reflection, and prayer.
The entire event typically lasts about 2 hours and will cover approximately 2 miles.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
RSVP
While RSVP is not required, it helps organizers prepare and will ensure participants receive the appropriate information.
Sponsors
The Way of the Cross for Peace and Justice is organized by the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns in collaboration with partner organizations committed to peace, justice and care for creation.
Co-sponsoring organizations include:
- Africa Faith and Justice Network
- Catholic Climate Covenant
- Churches for Middle East Peace
- Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
- Franciscan Action Network
- Friends in Solidarity
- Georgetown University Center on Faith and Justice
- Jubilee USA Network
- Leadership Conference of Women Religious
- Little Friends For Peace
- Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns
- National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd
- NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice
- Pax Christi International
- Pax Christi Metro DC-Baltimore
- Pax Christi USA
- Sisters of Mercy of the Americas Justice Team
- Sojourners
- Stuart Center for Mission
Stay Connected
Follow updates from the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns:
After the event, photos from 2026 Way of the Cross will be posted here.
Organize a Way of the Cross in Your Community
Communities across the country are encouraged to use the script and resources to organize their own Way of the Cross for Peace and Justice. These materials are designed to be adapted for local contexts.
If you organize a local Way of the Cross, we would love to hear about it.