ST. JOHN – As faithful arrived at The Shrine of Christ’s Passion on Good Friday, many were greeted by volunteer Liz Carr. She has been assisting at The Shrine since it opened in 2008 and calls the Holy Day “the most incredible day.”
“It's the most logistically challenging day, but the most faith-enriching day to see people of so many different faiths walking the trail and spending time with Jesus,” Carr said.
As individuals waited for Bishop Robert J. McClory to begin leading the Stations of the Cross at noon, other Christians visiting The Shrine who arrived early were already walking the path. Jim Girkant of Griffith was awaiting the return of his wife and children. He shared that he and his wife visited The Shrine when they were dating and continue to try to come there every Good Friday with their children.
“It’s important to remember the whole story and remember why Easter is Easter,” he said. “It’s not just about the Easter Bunny and stuff like that.”
Turning his thoughts to the atmosphere of the location, he added, “It’s peaceful here; it’s hard to explain.”
Kristen Rowland of Valparaiso also found it hard to explain what drew her to The Shrine. The Valparaiso resident had seen the signs promoting the site but had never been there. She wanted to walk the Stations of the Cross with Bishop McClory in an effort to become closer to God.
“It’s an opportunity to think about what Jesus did for us when he died on the Cross,” said Rowland, a parishioner of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.
At midday, Bishop McClory, the shepherd of the Diocese of Gary, began to lead those gathered through the Stations of the Cross, which was broadcast on Relevant Radio, a non-profit Catholic radio network. As he started, he set the tone for the prayerful walk that would invite those in attendance to reflect on the final hours of Jesus’ life.
“Along this path of sorrow, which was the price for our redemption,” prayed Bishop McClory. “We wish to suffer all that you suffered, to offer you our poor contrite hearts because you are innocent. And yet, you are going to die for us, who are the only truly guilty ones.”
He continued, “My Mother, Virgin of Sorrows, help me to relive those bitter hours, which your son wished to spend on Earth so that we who are made from a handful of clay, may finally live in the freedom and the glory of the children of God.”
The bishop proceeded down the half-mile winding prayer trail, which features forty life-size bronze statues, stopping at each station to reflect with the crowd of hundreds following behind. As they headed from one station to the next, all joined in singing, “Jesus, Remember Me” and “Were You There?”
At the conclusion, Bishop McClory stayed to greet and pray with many faithful, offering special blessings to many upon request.
General Manager Paul Anderson shared that it was the 17th year for The Shrine organizing a live Stations of the Cross event on Good Friday. He thanked the crowd for their participation as well as the team from Relevant Radio.
“I want to thank them for continuing this beautiful tradition of praying and broadcasting the Stations of the Cross here at The Shrine of Christ’s Passion,” he said.
Frank Shilling, a local businessman and founder/chief benefactor of The Shrine, said the number of people who visit The Shrine is a sign that the Holy Spirit is working. He stated it's uplifting to see so many people from all over the Chicagoland area coming there to take the time to reflect on what the Lord has done.
“He died for us and saved us,” Shilling said. “It’s heartwarming to see thousands of people here following our Lord.”
