Former Santa Rita Mayor Yolanda Pineda has extended a heartfelt invitation to Catholic faithful to join the weekly Stations of the Cross at the Santa Rita Eco Park throughout the Lenten season. In a recent post on her social media page, Pineda announced that this devotional activity is held every Monday at 5 p.m., providing a regular opportunity for spiritual reflection and community engagement.
Schedule and Details of the Lenten Observance
The Stations of the Cross at the Santa Rita Eco Park commenced on February 23, 2026, with subsequent sessions scheduled for March 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30. This religious event, also known as the Via Crucis Exercitium, serves as a solemn commemoration of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. Traditionally, it involves 14 images arranged sequentially along a pathway, allowing participants to move from one station to the next while pausing for prayers and meditations.
Encouragement from a Community Leader
Pineda, who is also the wife of Pampanga Vice Governor Dennis Pineda, has actively encouraged residents and visitors to take part in this Lenten activity as a meaningful way to deepen their faith and connect with their spiritual roots. Her advocacy highlights the importance of such traditions in fostering community bonds and personal growth during this sacred time of year.
Santa Rita Eco Park: A Hub for Spirituality and Recreation
The stations were established at the Eco Park several years ago to facilitate the annual observance of Lent, transforming the space into a serene venue for religious devotion. The Santa Rita Eco Park is a two-kilometer eco-tourism destination that not only accommodates pilgrims but also attracts health enthusiasts who seek to reflect and pray while walking through its scenic pathways.
Park History and Significance
Opened in December 2014 and maintained by the municipal government of Santa Rita, the park is situated along sections of the Megadike in Barangay San Isidro. Over the years, it has evolved into a popular venue for outdoor recreation and spiritual activities, blending natural beauty with cultural and religious significance. This dual purpose makes it an ideal setting for events like the Stations of the Cross, where participants can immerse themselves in both faith and nature.
By hosting these weekly gatherings, the Santa Rita Eco Park continues to serve as a vital community resource, promoting wellness, reflection, and communal worship during the Lenten season and beyond.
