Local Catholics Mark Good Friday with Annual Way of the Cross Procession

SAN ANGELO, TX -- Hundreds of area Catholics joined millions around the world today for the annual Way of the Cross procession commemorating Jesus carrying a cross to his crucifixion through the streets of Jerusalem 2,000 years ago on what is known as Good Friday. The annual procession in San Angelo began today at St. Margaret of Scotland Church on Era Street in east San Angelo and ended at Christ the King Retreat Center on Ford Street.

San Angelo’s Bishop Michael Sis, head of the 29-county Roman Catholic Diocese of San Angelo said, “As we walk and carry the cross and pray the Rosary and do the Way of the Cross over at the retreat center I hope that you will let this be a prayerful time for you.”  

The Way of the Cross or Via Dolorosa is still followed in Jerusalem by pilgrims to the holy land.

The participants today included the faithful of all ages from all backgrounds. They walked behind a trailer singing and praying and were assisted by members of the Knights of Columbus.  Bishop Sis carried a large wooden cross along with members of each parish in San Angelo.

Good Friday is the day Jesus was crucified. His resurrection is celebrated on Easter Sunday.   Roman Catholic tradition includes the 40 day period of Lent, or preparation, leading to Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Once the procession reached the retreat center, Bishop Sis led participants in the Stations of the Cross. The Stations of the Cross include 14 stops or stations commemorating the events occurring along Jesus’ way to his crucifixion on Mount Calvary.