Faithful gather in downtown Ottawa to participate in the Way of the Cross procession

The Way of the Cross celebration took place in downtown Ottawa Friday morning as parishioners walked through the stations of the Cross. (Camille Wilson/ CTV News Ottawa)

The Way of the Cross celebration took place in downtown Ottawa Friday morning as parishioners walked through the stations of the Cross.

Hundreds of people followed the procession led by Rev. Marcel Damphousse, Archbishop of Ottawa-Cornwall.

The annual tradition took from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., making five stops throughout the streets of Ottawa – starting at St. Patrick’s Basilica and ending at Notre Dame Cathedral.

The Archbishop of Ottawa-Cornwall says it’s the most important weekend of the year for Christians.

“Today being Good Friday is a very important, sacred and holy day for Christians. And in our Catholic tradition, like many have done this morning, we have lived to the stations of the Cross, following Christ in his own way of the cross to just let ourselves be truly moved by the great love Christ has shown to his people, and providing us with the gift of forgiveness of our sins and the promise of eternal life,” he said.

Attendees say this is a day they wouldn’t miss for the world and it’s become more than just a ritual for them.

“Since I’m here in Canada, I’ve been here for 20 years, and I join every year. And these kids that I have right now, since they are very little. I bring them every year with me since they were born,” said Greline Garasi, annual attendee. “We do every year and it means a lot to me. For forgiving our sins and thankful for all the blessing and it’s the guidance for my family members.”

Garasi says Easter weekend is fun for the kids.

“The true meaning of Easter for me, is the raising of God to forgive us of sin and give us another blessing for the year,” said Garasi.

The day included prayers, songs and reflections on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

“While Christ’s victory over death and evil is not just an experience for himself, but it’s the consequences of all that. It changes all of humanity,” said the Archbishop of Ottawa-Cornwall.

Worshippers ended the procession at Notre Dame Cathedral with a concluding service.

Good Friday marks the day Christians believe Jesus was crucified - the holiest weekend holiday for the Christian faith.