SARASOTA (WSNN) – An annual rite of Good Friday, cancelled last year due to the Pandemic, was held today in downtown Sarasota.
The Stations of the Cross are a 14-step devotion commemorating Jesus Christ’s last day on Earth as a man. Hundreds, wearing masks, with temperatures taken, walked along Sarasota’s Main Street to observe the 14 devotions or stations prior to his crucifixion.
Suncoasters, pastors, and preachers from more than 20 Sarasota area congregations began their walk just after sunrise at the Hollywood 11 Theater and ended the walk at Church of the Redeemer.
“It reminds us that all of us suffer in some way,” Amy McGowan said. “And it’s a way for all of us to come together with everybody rather than singling out certain victims. But he died to save all of us.”
McGowan, member of the Church of the Redeemer, participated in the event. She says this event serves as a reminder that we can overcome the trials and tribulations we all suffer from.
“It gives me hope, it gives me hope that people believe and understand that we can be kind to one another.,” McGowan said. “And can do it quietly, and share this story, Jesus’s story.”
It’s a tradition going back to 1966, started by the Church of the Redeemer. The Sarasota Ministerial Association joined along 15 years later making it the 20th year for them
Sarasota Mayor Hagen Brody and Sarasota County Commissioner Christian Ziegler presented the liturgy of the First Station.