St. Francis Xavier students bring Living Stations of the Cross to Pine Crest residents

Students from St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Merrill brought a meaningful Lenten tradition to local seniors on Friday, March 20, 2026, when they performed the Living Stations of the Cross for residents at Pine Crest Health and Memory Care.
The performance, which dramatizes the final hours of Jesus Christ’s journey to the crucifixion, is a common observance during the Lenten season leading up to Holy Week and Easter. For many of the middle school students involved, it was both a nerve-wracking and rewarding experience.
Eighth-grader Mason S., who voiced the role of Jesus, said he had reservations going in. “I was terrified to speak in front of people, but I think they liked it very much and I would do it again so they can have something to enjoy during the day,” he said.
Seventh-grader Rosie B., who played Mary, said the response from the audience made the experience worthwhile. “I felt happy that I was able to have that opportunity to do a play for them,” she said. “I felt that they were happy and glad we were there because they had smiles on their faces and told us thank you many times.”
Eighth-grader Elizabeth B., who served as narrator, echoed those feelings. “I felt a bit nervous but I was happy that I got to do this and have this amazing experience,” she said. “All of them had smiles on their faces and watched intently.”
Eighth-grader Sophie W., who played piano for the performance, said she hoped it offered something special to the residents. “I felt nervous during the living stations,” she said. “I think the residents enjoyed it because it’s a good experience to kind of show them the Passion of Christ. Being able to do this experience for them is a good thing because they don’t get to do things like this often.”
Eighth-grader Ben S., who played a soldier in the production, kept his reflection simple. “I was just glad we could do it for them,” he said. “I’m sure they liked it because they are always happy to see us doing something.”