Origin: The way of prayer originated over five centuries ago (early 16th century) among the Franciscans as a penitential procession with the 15th-century statue of Mary on Easter Monday.
The route has remained largely unchanged since then (last adjustment in 1804).
What is it?
A fixed walking route through the streets of Maastricht, which is walked while praying (especially the rosary).
The route is marked with gable stones and statues of Mary.
You can walk it individually, in small groups, or as a procession.
Large vs. Small Way of Prayer: Large Way of Prayer: Solemn procession in which the (replica) statue of Mary is carried on a stretcher, accompanied by brotherhoods, torches, singing, and prayer.
Small Way of Prayer: Silent way of prayer without a statue, often undertaken on one's own initiative or in small groups.
The statue stands in the Merode Chapel of the Basilica of Our Lady.
The Way of Prayer begins and ends there (at the Candle Chapel).
In 2022, the tradition was recognized as intangible cultural heritage of the Netherlands.
The Way of Prayer symbolizes popular devotion, penance, and the veneration of Mary, and is still walked regularly, especially around feast days such as October 10.
No comments:
Post a Comment