Aitape – April 18, 2025
Under grey skies and persistent rain, the faithful of  Cathedral Parish in the Diocese of Aitape gathered in great numbers to commemorate Good Friday in a powerful act of devotion and unity. The day began at 9:00 AM with the Way of the Cross starting in Yani, one of the parish’s local communities, and continued through the surrounding zones, each hosting a Station of the Cross.

Despite muddy paths and slippery roads, the procession moved forward with prayerful determination. Parishioners walked barefoot or with soaked footwear through the rain and clay, embodying the spirit of Christ’s suffering. Leading the faithful were the parish priest and his assistant, who accompanied the entire procession, offering reflections and guiding the prayers at each station.

The rain did little to dampen the spirit of those present. The faithful sang hymns in unison, their voices rising above the sound of falling rain as they meditated on Christ’s Passion.

By 2:00 PM, the procession arrived at St. Ignatius Chapel, where the Liturgy of the Passion began. The chapel filled quickly, while others stood under umbrellas or beneath nearby trees, remaining fully engaged in the sacred rite. The liturgy included the reading of the Passion Gospel, the Veneration of the Cross, and the distribution of Holy Communion—marking the spiritual climax of the day.

The service concluded at 5:00 PM, closing a profound and moving Good Friday experience. The unwavering presence of the parishioners, priests, and religious in the midst of physical discomfort was a testament to the strength of their faith and community.

As the skies remained heavy and the earth wet, the hearts of those who walked that sacred path were lifted, carrying with them the solemn grace of Good Friday and the hope of Easter yet to come.

DOA SOCOM