Thousands of onlookers gathered in the Pilsen neighborhood Friday to witness the annual re-enactment of the crucifixion of Christ.
The festival is one of the more graphic representations in Illinois where one participant is actually tied to a cross and paraded down the street by men dressed as Roman soldiers.
The march, which this year took place in murk and rain, gave way to a tangible reminder as many Christians reflect on what today’s 12 block journey represents. The Stations of the Cross depict the scorn, beating and ultimately the death of Christ.
Via Crucis or The Living Way of the Cross began around 9:00am at the Providence of God parish on 18th Street and ended at Harrison Park near Damen Ave.
The crowd then descended on St. Adalbert for a prayer service given by Cardinal George.
Elsewhere, a less graphic stations demonstration took place in downtown Chicago as marchers walked to Daley Plaza.
