Church of St. Peter Performs Stations of the Cross

Good Friday was observed at the Church of St. Peter in Belleville with a stirring re-enactment by parishioners of the Living Stations of the Cross, dramatizing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Beginning at 10 a.m., parishioners witnessed the trial and sentencing of Jesus.  A procession followed through the streets near the William Street church.

Holy Week is the week preceding Easter and the final week of Lent. Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday and ends with Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday, according to http://catholicism.about.com. Holy Week includes Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, which, together with Holy Saturday, are known as the Triduum.

During Holy Week, Christians commemorate the Passion of Christ, who died on Good Friday in reparation for the sins of mankind, and rose on Easter Sunday to give new life to all Christians who believe, the website says. So, while Holy Week is solemn and sorrowful, it also anticipates the joy of Easter through the recognition of God's goodness in sending His Son to die for Christians salvation, the website says.

Father Ivan Sciberras, the church’s Pastor, recited the Stations in both English and Spanish. St. Peter’s has a majority of Hispanic parishioners.

All 14 steps were acted out.

Guillermo Valladares, deacon at the church, said he is proud of the involvement of the parishioners.

“We have full attendance at four masses every week,” he said.

Parishioners spoke in both English and Spanish about the meaning of Catholic Holy Week, with many dropping to their knees during the Stations in front of the church.