Way of the Cross prayer walk returns to Saskatoon

Saskatoon’s outdoor Way of the Cross prayer walk is returning on Good Friday after a COVID-related hiatus.

Myron Rogal, co-ordinator of the Justice and Peace Office with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, says organizers are excited for its return. The walk was last held in Saskatoon in 2019.

“For Catholics and Christians, this is an important day,” he said, adding a cross will be carried throughout downtown Saskatoon.

All participants are welcome. Rogal reminded people to dress for the weather.

The walk is for all ages, Rogal said. It starts at 10 a.m. at the courthouse on Spadina Crescent, and will take participants through downtown in around an hour and a half.

He said 40 volunteers have come forward from local agencies, churches and community groups to lead stations throughout the walk. He added there’s a waiting list going into next year for the volunteers as well.

In previous years, the weather did not work in favour of the walk, but Rogal said so far, things are looking good. In previous years, the walk has had anywhere from 200 to 600 participants, he noted.

“It’s important for Christians to pause, to take time to commemorate this day, and come together as a community to share our common belief in Christ,” he said.

Throughout the walk, there will be 14 stations to stop at, he said, which will have themes such as the Ukraine war, support for pregnant women, climate crisis and global hunger.

He adds participants will be able to hear different languages like Ukrainian, Spanish and Aramaic.

“We hope to see many many people there, young and old alike,” he said.

–Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Rogal’s name.