Calangute Deanery Youth Way of the Cross – A Report
\”We adore you O Christ and we praise you. Because by your Holy Cross, you have redeemed the world,” chanted more than 170 faithful youth as they participated in the way of the Cross on 2nd April at the Candolim hilltop. Although 8 parishes belonging to the Calangute deanery were invited to participate in the way cross, only 6 did make it. They were Candolim, Reis Magos, Saligao , Pilerne and Nagoa.All the youth of the 6 parishes assembled at the Candolim church at 4 pm and with prayers and hymns alternating the faithful commenced the procession up the hill, stopping to pray at each station. The youth participated enthusiastically in the way of the cross by carrying the wooden cross candles, singing hymns, acknowledging their sins and asking for pardon as they reflected on Jesus\’ passion . Since the theme of this year\’s way of the cross was \’Making the way of the cross relevant during covid and post – covid times\’, at each station the representatives of different parishes took turns in reciting the prayers and reflections relating to the theme . Many youth even carried banners/ posters and performed enactments relating to the theme. Between each station the youth of Candolim accompanied by Fr. Sanford sang the Lenten hymns melodiously.The way of the cross was made more meaningful due to guidance provided by Fr. Derick ,the Calangute Youth Priest Animator in helping the youth to reflect and to pray for the intention mentioned at each station. After the 14th station, the youth gathered in front of the Chapel up the hill and Fr. Derick led the closing prayer. He appreciated the contribution made by all for conducting the way of the cross with much devotion and spirituality. Further he also thanked the Candolim Parish youth, their Youth Animator – Fr. Sanford and the Deanery coordinator – Edmer, for all the assistance and efforts provided in making the evening an eventful and spiritual one. The day ended with a small fellowship up the hill where refreshments were sponsored by the Candolim Parish.Truly it was a beautiful evening spent walking with Jesus and reflecting on His final hours on earth.
Report by – Giselle Dias
(Saligao)