One of the places at which ecclesiastical processions
   pause for the performance of an act of devotion; formerly, the tomb of
   a martyr, or some similarly consecrated spot; now, especially, one of
   those representations of the successive stages of our Lord's passion
   which are often placed round the naves of large churches and by the
   side of the way leading to sacred edifices or shrines, and which are
   visited in rotation, stated services being performed at each; -- called
   also Station of the cross.