SAN ANTONIO – Thousands of spectators lined the streets of downtown San Antonio on Good Friday to witness the re-enactment of the passion of Christ, a dramatic recreation of the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
The re-enactment dates back to 1983, when the wooden cross carried by the actor playing Jesus weighed 150 pounds, compared to the 50-pound cross used today.
“All the crosses that we bear, all our sufferings, but nothing compares to what Jesus went through,” said Pat Hernandez, an attendee. “It was just emotional for me. I’ve lost both my parents, so I felt like I was walking with Him.”
Sky 12 Video: Re-enactment of the Passion of Christ (Clip 1)
In past years, the play has included depictions of Pontius Pilate washing his hands, as well as Mary, Jesus’ mother, holding her son’s body after it was removed from the cross.
As a warning to younger or more sensitive audiences, the play is very graphic due to the nature of the story.
Sky 12 Video: Re-enactment of the Passion of Christ (Clip 2)
In the play, Jesus is condemned to death and forced to carry his cross. He falls several times and is stripped of his garments, after which point he is nailed to the cross and taken down after he dies.
Even some of the youngest in the audience were moved.
“People need to have a better heart about it. They have to be kinder. They can't just be hurting," said Solangel Bass, a youth who attended the play.
Solangel's mother said their family goes to the event every year, and she was moved by her daughter's response.
"It’s just really nice that a little child can have a big heart and that she can have those feelings, and yet, adults still have a lot of growth,” Rosa Bass said.
The prayer service will start at 10 a.m. at Milam Park and end at San Fernando Cathedral in Main Plaza at approximately 11:30 a.m.