Although there are countless works of artistry within the Basilica, very few match the remarkable Stations of the Cross. Located along both sides of the shrine, the 14 Stations (and two additional sculptured groupings) each could be considered a masterwork. Each scene consists of life-sized figures that have been carved from a single piece of marble (as opposed to being sculpted seperately and then assembled). Pepini, the Italian artist who took on the project, took 14 years to complete all 16 stations, using painstaking detail to depict the passionate emotions of Jesus' final hours on earth.

It is one Station in particular, though, that holds a special distinction. "Jesus Meets His Afflicted Mother" holds a special place in Basilica lore as one of Father Baker's favorite places in his most adored project. Quite often, the aged priest (in his 80s by the time the Basilica was completed) could be found leaning on the pillar closest to this Station, meditating and saying prayers. His fondness for the spot was two fold: he could gaze at the "Afflicted Mother" Station, and, at the same time, maintain a clear view of the spectacular Main Altar at the shrine's front.

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