Faithful come out for Way of the Cross despite bad weather

Eva Hillis believes the gloomy weather, which forced a venue change for the Way of the Cross event held on Good Friday, served a purpose, creating a somber atmosphere more conducive to reflection.

Hillis, executive director of Love INC of Southeast Missouri and a participant with the Downtown Council of Churches, said the event was a great opportunity to show for the community to unite.

The Way of the Cross invites Christians from all faiths to journey on Good Friday through the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion. It is sponsored by the council of churches.

Most years, participants carry a cross and pray the scriptural stations of the cross during a 2 1/2-mile walk through downtown Cape Girardeau. They stop at 14 locations and say prayers for the community. However, the weather forced this year's event inside Old St. Vincent's Catholic Church in downtown Cape Girardeau.

Hillis said stations of the cross and prayers for the community still happened inside the church, even though participants were not able to walk.

"It almost puts you in the frame of mind," she said.

Marla Mills, a representative from St. Mary's Cathedral in Cape Girardeau, said the normal outside venue for the event has a great effect on the community.

"We carry the cross downtown as a very public reminder of what Jesus did for us at this time of the year," she said.

It is good for the community to see Christians coming together in a positive environment, she said.

"It reminds people that no matter what faith you are, we have a common bond," she said.

The Rev. Dan Johnson of the Evangelical United Church of Christ in Cape Girardeau said the idea of the cross is that anyone can carry it. Families and children enjoy participating and carrying the lightweight cross.

"It really brings home the meaning of Easter," he said.

Stan Hargis, chaplain at Southeast Health, provided hymns and gospel music that relate to Good Friday.

He said the event is a meaningful way to remember Christ's sacrifice.

"We seek to not only learn but grow spiritually from this time," he said.

Hillis said the community's togetherness is just one great aspect of the event.

"We can put aside our differences and focus on what we have in common," she said.

rrolwing@semissourian.com

388-3654

Pertinent address:

119 S. Spanish St., Cape Girardeau, MO