CHICAGO (WLS) — On Good Friday, Pilsen becomes a gathering place for hundreds who come to witness the Via Crucis.
This cherished tradition has thrived for 49 years, offering Catholics a profound, firsthand experience during Holy Week.
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“It’s a mix of sadness and warmth, stirring many emotions,” shared Talissa Guererro, a participant in the Pilsen Via Crucis.
For Guererro, this event is a cherished family tradition. She now brings her 10-year-old son to share in the experience.
“I used to come here with my grandmother and my sisters. Now, I’ve started bringing my son, and he really enjoys it,” Guererro explained.
Taking place on 18th Street in Pilsen, the event features a reenactment of the Fourteen Stations of the Cross, with scenes depicting Jesus’ final days, including the Last Supper and the crucifixion.
“The Stations of the Cross is the Passion of the Christ. This is where Jesus was sentenced to die, and this is the cornerstone of our catholic faith. This is what us Catholics use to draw strength throughout the year, in our times we face desperate times,” said Pilsen Via Crucis coordinator Jason Rodriguez. “We look at what Jesus had suffered, and we try to apply that to our lives and understand that we can make it through whatever is troubling us.”
The procession allows people to pray and reflect. Organizers say this year’s Via Crucis carries a much deeper meaning for Latino Catholics in Chicago.
“In light of recent activity with ICE, there was a bit of a hush tone of the event. But I think each year, we come out as a sign of strength that, you know, this won’t stop. We’re here for those of us that can’t be out and live our lives,” Rodriguez said.
Organizers say the person who acted as Jesus during the Via Crucis is a DePaul University student as the Catholic Church looks to get more young people involved.
The event wraps up with a closing prayer at Saint Pius Church.
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