Dozens braved gray, threatening skies to participate in the annual Good Friday Walk of the Cross processional that started at noon today (April 3) at First Baptist Church of Festus-Crystal City in Crystal City and finished at First United Methodist Church in Festus.
About 50 participants gathered to start the procession, sponsored by the Twin City Ministerial Alliance, and more joined the ranks along the several blocks between the churches on Bailey Road/Main Street.
“We usually get 200 or more on the walk, but the weather may have kept some people away,” said Pastor Arnold Mangus of United Pentecostal Church of Festus and president of the alliance. “We also always have people waiting at the end of the procession to hear the speaker.”
About a dozen churches participate in the yearly religious event, he said. The procession makes several stops along the way for preaching and to switch cross bearers.
The Rev. Andy Blacksher, pastor of First United Methodist Church, was the featured speaker at his church.
Pastor Norm Bell of Bloomsdale, formerly pastor of Fairview Christian Church of Festus, estimated he was taking part in his 14th Walk of the Cross. Organizers estimate the event has been held for about two decades.
“I’ve carried the cross two or three times,” Bell said. “It’s an important event to bring Christians of all faiths together.”
While waiting for the Walk of the Cross to begin, Carol Noce said she attended for the benefit of her granddaughter, 7-year-old Payton Noce. Both are from Festus.
“This is the first year we’re doing it,” she said. “I felt like she needed to experience it.”
Police closed the westbound lane of Bailey Road/Main Street for the procession, with a squad car leading the way.