How to go
When: Noon Friday
Where: Begins at Presbyterian Church, 23 S. Front St.; proceeds to Front Street Church of God; Zion Lutheran Church; First St. John United Church of Christ; First United Methodist Church; the Government Services Center; and ends at Historic Butler County Courthouse
HAMILTON — Each person reflects differently on the vast possibilities of faith, but on Good Friday the Hamilton community comes together for Way of the Cross, a live demonstration of the Stations of the Cross depicting the final hours in the life of Jesus as recorded in the Christian Bible.
The annual event begins at noon Friday outside the Historic Butler County Courthouse on High Street.
The Rev. John Lewis, of the Presbyterian Church, said the Way of the Cross has been an eight-year local tradition.
The event brings together more than 15 pastors from downtown churches and travels around downtown Hamilton making seven stops. Lewis said a crowd of about 300 participants comes each year.
“We wanted to do something downtown to bring all the Christian-faith churches together,” Lewis said. “There’s nothing controversial about it. We set aside our theological disbeliefs to come together on common ground.”
The procession is led by a drummer and includes three crosses symbolizing Jesus and the two thieves beside whom he was crucified, Lewis said.
During the 90-minute event, attendees receive thorns, nails and thimbles of water to represent elements of the crucifixion story, Lesis said.
He said each of the seven stops offer time for prayer, reflection and song. He said it’s common for the event to evoke strong emotions in those who attend.
“People want to carry the cross and share the time,” Lewis said. “It brings a closeness, because it’s a very powerful moment.”
Anyone interested in carrying one of the three crosses for a portion of the walk is welcome to do so, Lewis said.
Two days later, the Presbyterian Church will conduct an Easter sunrise service, which will be held at 7 a.m. Sunday at Veterans Park.
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