THE EVENTS leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus were remembered in the centre of Evesham on Good Friday (April 18).
The traditional Walk of Witness, with prayers, songs and Bible readings, was punctuated this year with scenes from a mini Passion Play written by Sheila Himsworth from the Methodist Church and performed by Christians from a number of different
churches.
Christians took part in the event to remember the the Holy Week which began with the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, remembered on Palm Sunday, through the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday, to the crucifixion of Jesus on Good
Friday and his resurrection on Easter Day.
At the start of the walk the figure of Jesus, represented this year by Eivind Bovor, was welcomed with cheers near the Workman Bridge.
As he was carried by his disciples through the crowd, the scene then swiftly changed to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed for release from crucifixion and was then arrested while his disciples ran away.
The final scene of the drama took place in the Market Square where the Rev. David Haslam from the Methodist Church, in the role of the Roman Procurator Pontius Pilate, was coerced by the crowd into condemning Jesus to crucifixion.
The cross was then carried to the Abbey Gardens where a short service of remembrance was held, led by the Rev. Mark Binney, Chair of Churches Together in Evesham.
Sarah Hewitt, Anglican Missioner in Evesham said, “I was really moved when Jesus was praying on his knees, but the disciples were all sleeping. His loneliness must have been unbearable.”
The Vicar of Evesham, the Rev. Andrew Spurr, said: “It was refreshing to see this important Holy Week observation be given a new treatment.
“Public Passion plays are seeing a comeback across the nation, and it would be good if these first steps could be developed in the future.”
Jesus prays for his release from crucifixion. (s)
Rev David Haslam as Pontius Pilate condemning Jesus to death. (s)
