Via Crucis in Pilsen
The living Way of the Cross, or Via Crucis in Spanish, comes to us from events two millennia in the past and from halfway across the world.
For the last 46 years, the parishioners of Providence of God Catholic Church at 18th Street and Union Avenue have reenacted the events that took place before and during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Religious commemorations are some of the oldest festivals that have been observed over the centuries. In my own Christian faith tradition, I think of Easter, dating back to circa 30 BCE.
In the Jewish faith tradition, Passover comes to mind and dates to circa 1,445 BCE. For Muslims, the Hajj dates to 632 CE with Ramadan having a similar origin date. The Hindu Diwali festival is documented in ancient Sanskrit texts from the fourth century CE. The Hindu festival Navaratri may have originated around 6,000 BCE.
A Community Tradition
Organizers say the Via Crucis is a “neighborhood tradition and inspiration to the community” according to CBS News. Run by volunteers and featuring about 40 actors, it takes six weeks to plan.
This year, Ernest Rionaula played Jesus Christ. Eighteen-year-old Priscilla Bonilla portrayed Mary. Although the story was told in Spanish, everyone in attendance understood what was happening.
The day begins in the basement auditorium of the church. Volunteers act out scenes from the Last Supper through Jesus being crowned with thorns. They then form a solemn procession down 18th Street for a mile and a half to Harrison Park for the crucifixion. It ends at St. Pius V Catholic Church on Ashland Avenue with final prayers.
The Images
The Last Supper.
Being whipped after condemned to death.
Leading the procession proclaiming “Jesus King of the Jews.”
Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus to carry his cross.
The women of Jerusalem waiting to meet Jesus.
You always know you’re in Pilsen as you walk down 18th Street.
An overhead view from the Pink Line elevated stop.
The crucifixion scene before retreating to St. Pius V Catholic Church for final prayers.
It was a challenge to take good photographs. There were thousands of people in attendance. And every one of them seemed to be in front of me! Finally, the procession was surrounded by a rope line that you couldn’t cross.
Thanks for looking,
Chuck Derus