Way of the Cross an arduous journey

By COLLEEN McINTYRE
Special to the WCR
Susa Creek

A group of about 80 or 90 gathered around the cross at Susa Creek to begin the journey. They prayed, offered their petitions and sang at each of the 14 stations to reflect on the steps Jesus took on the first Good Friday.

As young as five, as old as nearly 80, some struggled with limps or arthritis. They simply wanted to accompany Our Lord on his journey to the cross.

They prayed the rosary as they walked, people joining in whatever mystery was being prayed at that time.

At the sixth station, they stopped and sat spread out on the side of a cliff or at the foot of the cross to rest and mend their blistered feet. There were 127 people at that point.

Another took the cross, raised it up and they began again silently.

Children played and some playful pups were kept on a rope for the safety of all.

A car pulled over and two men jumped out, abandoned their vehicle and joined the group for awhile. Other passing motorists waved and gave a thumbs-up.

After each station, the voices grew stronger as they sang and recited the prayers in Cree and English. There was no hesitation as the procession continued again, only a zeal to continue.

As they reached the top of the hill, the cross moved on to the church where they prayed the final station and the blessing was given.

The people dispersed quietly and in the silence of their hearts pondered God's love and mercy for all. God's grace and his blessing had been poured out on his people and our town.

All returned an hour later to take part in the Good Friday service.

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