In what has become an annual Good Friday tradition, thousands of Southern Californians will observe the holy day by walking the outdoor Stations of the Cross at Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center in Sierra Madre.

"Everyone is invited to join us by marking this day in prayer, chant and walking with the Lord on his final journey to the cross," said Passionist Father Pat Brennan, retreat director.

The Passionist religious community and volunteers will lead the Stations between 6 p.m and 8:30 p.m. on April 9. Gates will be open earlier for private devotion on Good Friday, 9 a.m.-noon. The retreat grounds will be closed from noon to 6 p.m.

Built over 13 years, the Stations of the Cross at the retreat center is the same length as Christ's last walk in Jerusalem --- a little less than a quarter of a mile. Former Sierra Madre mayor Bill Schiltz and Passionist Brother Joe Stadtfeld created the original artwork for the stations, hauling some 350 tons of various colored rocks and stones that came from five nearby states.

For more information, call the retreat center at (626) 355-7188.