Jesus stands between the Roman soldiers as He is mocked and tortured. The youth group of Maida Vale parish organised and participated in a live Stations of the Cross on Good Friday 2 April 2021, at the parish grounds. Photo: Supplied. 
Parishioners of Saint Francis of Assisi gathered to commemorate the Passion of Christ, with a live depiction of Christ’s crucifixion and death on the cross.
Maida Vale Parish Priest Father Joseph Rathnaraj said that the live Stations of the Cross, was a time for prayer, reflection, and thanksgiving as a community, for the opportunity to gather physically this year.
“In the morning of Good Friday, we had the joy of participation in a Live Stations of the Cross well prepared and presented by the Youth Group of our parish this year. It was a touching event for all those who came to participate in big numbers.
“Many young children too came with the families to witness the event. Some scenes were particularly touching emotionally when the Lord suffered beatings by the soldiers, when Mary met her Son Jesus, when Veronica wiped the face of Jesus.
The death scene was observed in deep silence.
“The group helped our parishioners pray better, with the accompaniment of drama, music and reflections. It was a great spiritual experience to all the participants,” Father Rathnaraj added.
“I wish to thank the members of our Youth Group, all those who helped with the preparations and all our beloved parishioners who attended.”
Fr Rathnaraj and Permanent Deacon Trevor Lyra were central in educating and guiding the congregation through the personal contemplations and prayers. Parishioner Francis Filamor handled the visual effects, props, costumes, and makeup for all cast members including the role of Jesus, which has been played by Lester Rios for the past four years.
Maria Filamor, who first introduced this concept to the parish, said that After the lockdown last year, this year marks a special celebration to commemorate Jesus’ unconditional love for His people.
“I think the live stations of the cross made it easier for people to journey with Jesus as the events were portrayed right before their eyes – from the sight of Jesus crowned with thorns, blood from scourging, the sound of the banging of nails as Jesus was nailed on the cross, the agony as Jesus hang on the cross as He is crucified and the love of Mother Mary as she journeyed with Jesus through His suffering,” Mrs Filamor said.
“It is a special blessing that despite the lockdowns and restrictions in different states, the parishioners of St Francis of Assisi Parish Maida Vale were able to gather and reflect as a prayer community.”