Finding Minnesota: New Ulm's Way Of The Cross

Unveiling the Hidden Gem of Brown County

Is that Jonah playing a guitar and singing? It was. I did not notice that. There is a path in Brown County that will lead you on a journey through history. It is called the Way of the Cross, and it brings visitors from around the world. In finding Minnesota, we find out why it has become more than just an Easter time destination.

A Place of Serenity and Reflection

Not every town can say they have a 110-foot statue looking over them. Hermann the German stands front and center, but it is not the only statue that draws a crowd. The Way of the Cross, located in Brown County, is a place of prayer, meditation, and tranquility. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to reflect upon the passion and death of Jesus through its 14 outdoor stations.

A Journey Back in Time

The statues in each of the stations were made in Bavaria at the Bavarian Academy of Art in Munich, Germany. They arrived in Brown County in 1904, and an order of nuns called the Poor Handmaidens of Jesus Christ meticulously crafted the pathway. The path itself stretches 700 feet long, and in the heart of it all lies a grotto that was built one stone at a time. The nuns also played a significant role in assembling the pathway, pushing wheelbarrows of brick and cobblestone up the hill.

A Resurrection of History

Over the decades, the weight of the cross became overlooked and overgrown. The path became obscured by trees, and it seemed as though the historic pathway would be lost to time. However, Bishop said, "Either take care of it or tear it down." The Knights of Columbus took up the challenge and essentially resurrected this historic landmark. They sent the nearly 120 euro statues to a company in St. Paul, who restored them to their former glory. The Knights also cleaned up the chapel at the top of the hill. It was a labor of love, fueled by the generosity of the community through donations.

A Place for All

Now, the Way of the Cross stands proudly on the National Register of Historic Places, attracting visitors from all walks of life. It is not limited to Catholics; people of various faiths come here seeking solace and inspiration. Touring the stations is not the only draw; the vibrant flowers that adorn the area add to the enchantment. Denise Richter, the caretaker, tirelessly plants and maintains the entire area. The transformation of the plant life mirrors the journey the Way of the Cross has taken, from a simple path adorned only with irises to a blossoming oasis.

Finding Peace in Troubled Times

The caretakers believe that everyone who visits the Way of the Cross gets something different out of their experience. However, they also believe that all visitors share one important thing in common: a desire for peace and serenity. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, people flock to this sacred place to find solace for their weary souls. It serves as a reminder that amidst the turmoil, there is still a sanctuary where one can find respite and tranquility.

A Testament to Timeless Beauty

The Way of the Cross, originally the brainchild of Father Alexander Burgled and Sister Flavia, has become a hidden gem of Brown County. Its rich history and captivating beauty have earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020. As visitors traverse the path, they embark on a journey through time, immersing themselves in the profound story of Jesus' passion and death. But beyond its religious significance, the Way of the Cross offers a sanctuary for all, a place where peace and serenity can be found amidst the chaos of the world.

So, the next time you find yourself in Brown County, don't miss the opportunity to explore the Way of the Cross. Let the statues and the flowers guide you as you embark on a journey of reflection and tranquility. Experience the beauty and serenity that this historic landmark has to offer, and discover the peace of mind that comes with immersing yourself in its timeless embrace.