California Road Trip: Groom, Texas
A Spiritual Detour Along Route 66: Visiting The Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas
After leaving Wichita Falls during our cross-country road trip to California, we decided to make a detour west toward the small town of Groom to visit the incredible Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
As we continued west on I-40, the massive cross suddenly appeared on the horizon, rising high above the flat Texas Panhandle landscape. Sitting just off historic Route 66 near Amarillo, the 190-foot cross can reportedly be seen from nearly 20 miles away and stands as one of the tallest crosses in the world.
Walking through the Stations of the Cross at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ was one of the most moving experiences of our entire road trip. The life-sized bronze statues begin with Jesus being condemned to death and continue through each moment of His journey to Calvary. As visitors walk the path, they see Jesus taking up the cross, falling the first time, meeting His Blessed Mother, and receiving help from Simon of Cyrene. Other stations portray Veronica wiping the face of Jesus, His second and third falls, and His emotional encounter with the women of Jerusalem. Each sculpture is incredibly detailed and realistic, making the scenes feel powerful and deeply personal.
The stations continue with Jesus being stripped of His garments, nailed to the cross, and dying at Calvary beneath the darkened sky. The final scenes show Jesus being taken down from the cross and placed in the tomb. Surrounding the stations are additional memorials and displays including the Three Crosses at Calvary, the Last Supper sculpture, the Ten Commandments monument, the Divine Mercy fountain, and peaceful prayer areas that encourage visitors to pause and reflect. The entire property creates an atmosphere of reverence and prayer despite sitting just off busy I-40 and historic Route 66 in the middle of the Texas Panhandle.
First: Jesus Is Condemned to Death
Pilate said to them, “Why? What evil has he done?” They only shouted louder, “Crucify Him.” (Mark 15:14) Pilate called for water and washed his hands in front of the crowd, declaring, “I am innocent of the blood of this just man.” (Matthew 27:24)
Second: Jesus Carries His Cross
He emptied himself and took the form of a slave, being born in the likeness of man. (Philippians 2:7)
Third: Jesus Falls the First Time
I looked about, but there was no one to help, I was appalled that there was no one to lend support. (Isaiah 63:5)
Fourth: Jesus Meets His Mother, Mary
Jesus meets his mother, Mary. For he has looked upon his servant in her lowliness, all ages to come shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:48) She gave birth to a son, a male child, destined to rule all the nations with an iron rod. (Revelation 12:5)
Fifth: Simon Helps Jesus
A man called Simon of Cyrene was coming in from the fields and they pressed him into service to carry the Cross. (Mark 15:21)
Sixth: Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus
Then the righteous will answer him and say, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you or see you thirsty and give you drink?” (Matthew 25:37)
Seventh: Jesus Falls the Second Time
He himself bore our sins in His body upon the Cross, so that, free from sin, we might live for righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. (1 Peter 2:24)
Eighth: Jesus Comforts the Women of Jerusalem
A great crowd followed Him, including women who lamented over him. Jesus turned and said, “Do not weep for me, weep for yourselves and for your children.” (Luke 23:27-28)
Ninth: Jesus Falls the Third Time
“I am like water poured out, all my bones are racked…my throat is dried up like dried clay, my tongue cleaves to my jaws, to the dust of death you have brought me down.” (Psalms 22: 15,16)
Tenth: Jesus is Stripped of his Garments
Jesus is stripped of his garments, they took his garments and divided them four ways, a share for each soldier. (John 19:23) They divided my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots. (Psalms 22:19)
Eleventh: Jesus is Nailed to the Cross
Indeed, many dogs surround me, a pack of evildoers closes in upon me, they have pierced my hands and my feet, I can count all my bones. (Psalms 22:17-19)
Twelfth: Jesus Dies on the Cross
Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Father into your hands I commit my spirit.” And when he said this, he breathed his last. (Luke 23:46)
Thirteenth: Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross
They shall look on him whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him as one mourns for an only son. (Zechariah 12:10)
Fourteenth: Jesus is Laid in the Holy Sepulchre
Then having brought a linen shroud, Joseph of Arimathea took him down, wrapped him in linen, and laid him in a tomb, which had been hewn out of a rock. (Mark 15:46)
The Resurrection
But when they looked they saw that the stone, which was very big, had already been rolled back. One entering the tomb they saw a young man in a white robe seated on the right-hand side, and they were struck with amazement. But he said to them, “There is no need to be so amazed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified: he has risen, he is not here. See, here is the place where they laid him.” (Mark 16:4-6)
The Crucifixion display at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice Jesus Christ made for the salvation of mankind. As visitors stand before the scene, they are drawn into the emotional and spiritual significance of Christ’s suffering and death on the cross. The detailed sculptures and peaceful surroundings create a moving place for prayer, reflection, and gratitude for God’s mercy and love. Many visitors pause quietly at the Crucifixion scene to reflect on the meaning of Christ’s sacrifice and the hope and redemption found through His resurrection.
One of the most unique and memorable displays at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ is the life-sized Last Supper sculpture. The detailed bronze scene captures Jesus gathered with the twelve apostles during His final meal before the crucifixion. What makes the display especially meaningful is that visitors are invited to step into the scene by sitting at the table in one of the empty seats among the apostles. It creates a powerful and personal moment that allows you to feel connected to the setting rather than simply viewing it from a distance.
Surrounded by the quiet Texas Panhandle landscape near historic Route 66 and I-40, the Last Supper display becomes more than just a sculpture — it feels like a place for reflection and prayer. Sitting at the table while looking at the expressions and details of the apostles made the experience surprisingly emotional and unforgettable. Combined with the Stations of the Cross, the giant cross towering overhead, and the peaceful atmosphere of the property, the Last Supper was one of the highlights of our visit to Groom, Texas.
At the Ten Commandments Monument at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, visitors are invited to slow down and reflect on God’s Word and the commandments He gave to Moses. Set among the peaceful grounds of the site, the monument displays these sacred teachings in a way that encourages prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal. Standing before the monument, visitors are reminded how God’s Word continues to guide everyday life through faith, obedience, honesty, and love for both God and neighbor.
The Ten Commandments monument is more than a display of scripture—it is a powerful reminder of the lasting truth and wisdom found in God’s Word. As visitors walk the grounds of the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the monument becomes part of a larger spiritual journey alongside the towering cross, sacred statues, and scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. Many people pause here to carefully read each commandment, finding inspiration, peace, and a renewed sense of purpose during their visit to this faith-filled destination in Groom, Texas.

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.
The Visitor Center at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, provides a welcoming place for travelers and pilgrims to begin their visit to this inspiring spiritual destination. Inside, visitors can learn more about the history and mission of the site while taking a break from the Texas heat. The peaceful atmosphere allows guests to reflect on God’s Word and prepare for their walk through the grounds, which include the towering cross, Stations of the Cross, and many beautiful religious displays. The Visitor Center also offers a place to pick up information, browse faith-based gifts and souvenirs, and experience the warm hospitality that makes the site so memorable.
One of the most meaningful features near the Visitor Center is the beautiful Fountain of Mercy. The fountain serves as a reminder of God’s endless love, grace, and forgiveness flowing into the lives of believers. Surrounded by the peaceful setting of the grounds, the sound of flowing water creates a calming atmosphere for prayer and reflection. Many visitors pause at the Fountain of Mercy to spend quiet moments with God, finding comfort and renewal during their visit to the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Whether you are making a quick stop while traveling along Interstate 40 or planning a special pilgrimage, the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, is a place that leaves a lasting impression on the heart. From the towering 190-foot cross to the Stations of the Cross, the Ten Commandments monument, and peaceful prayer areas, the grounds offer visitors a chance to pause from the busyness of life and reflect on God’s Word and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Many travelers arrive expecting a brief roadside stop and leave feeling spiritually renewed after experiencing the peaceful atmosphere and powerful reminders of faith found throughout the property.
The Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ Ministries welcomes visitors from all walks of life who are seeking encouragement, prayer, and a closer connection with God. If you would like more information about visiting, supporting the ministry, or learning more about the grounds and mission, you can contact the ministry at (806) 248-9006 or visit their official website at Cross Ministries.







































