‘Sign of solidarity’
Washington churches unite for cross walk
Trailing behind two volunteers shouldering a life-size cross, more than 100 members of St. James Parish and Church of the Covenant in Washington trekked six blocks, passing by several of Washington’s churches during an event that has become an annual tradition.
It was the fifth year of the annual Cross Walk, which takes place every Good Friday, one of the most important holidays for the Christian faith. The event is meant to symbolize Jesus Christ carrying a cross on the way to his crucifixion before the Easter Sunday resurrection.
Hosted by St. James Parish, which includes Immaculate Conception Church, St. Hilary Church, and Sacred Heart Church, the walk began at Church of the Covenant on East Beau Street and ended nearly a mile later, at IC Church.
It was the first Cross Walk for the Rev. Dr. Billy Younger, senior pastor of Church of the Covenant.
“I was delighted when St. James Parish made the invitation. I think, for me, it’s highly symbolic of our unity with the Catholic community in Washington,” said Younger. “It’s so important that we can demonstrate our unity and the common love we have for our Lord and our community.”
The Rev. Mike Zavage, senior parochial vicar at St. James Parish, agreed.
“This is an ecumenical event, and we wanted people from different denominations to work together, to worship together,” said Zavage. “Obviously, there’s a lot going on in the world right now, and we’re Christians learning to work together, and this is a good way to do that.”
The walk involved stops at 15 Stations of the Cross, which commemorate Jesus Christ’s last day on Earth before he was crucified.
At each station, worshippers paused to meditate and recall an event from that day, while also reciting prayers.
“It’s a way for us during this Easter time to really spiritually identify with Christ and with those who are suffering,” said one participant along the walk. “We’re walking for reconciliation, for peace, and for healing.”
Attendees carried the cross for as long or as short as they liked.
Nathaniel Herrmann, a member of St. James Parish, was among those who carried the cross.
“This is significant because it is an opportunity for community outreach,” said Herrmann. “We have different beliefs and traditions, but we all have one faith and this is a sign of solidarity.”