LYNN — Catholics in the city continued a long-standing tradition as they recreated the stations of the cross during the annual downtown Good Friday procession.
St. Joseph’s Church parishioners plan the procession every spring, practicing for the Good Friday even and making costumes for the key Biblical participants in the procession. The march starts at Lynn Common and ends at the St. Joseph’s Parish Center.
Erick Toc, the director of this year’s procession, has been preparing for the procession since the beginning of January. Hiring actors, getting costumes, and ensuring a smooth sail for the big event entailed the help of many volunteers from the community.
Valeria Gonzalez also played a huge role in helping guarantee a successful procession. Aside from lending a hand in organizing, she also held the signs for each station, guiding the hundreds of viewers throughout the reenactment.
“People don’t stop working or studying during Holy Week, so this is a way for us all to celebrate the passion of Christ,” said Gonzalez.
The Rev. Israel Rodriguez greeted the spectators and worshippers by starting the procession off with a welcoming prayer. Minutes later, the reenactment began shortly before noon with local Catholics playing the many roles needed for it.
Angel Perez played Jesus, Carlos Mario played Pontius Pilate, Francia Soto played Mother Mary, and Carolina Hernandez played the role of Mary Magdalene.
The reenactment of the passion of Jesus Christ, which took almost three hours, made its way through downtown Lynn starting at the bandstand in the Lynn Commons and ending at the St. Joseph’s Parish Center on Green Street.
