Way of the Cross

By Ben Lockridge

Tue, May 13 2008

— “If anyone wants to be My follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me."
These were the words of Jesus Christ during His ministry on earth, and this is what many Christians took literally on Good Friday in Meridian.
13 area churches and many others came together for the "Way of the Cross" walk to honor their faith and their savior by walking as a group through downtown Meridian carrying a cross. The 13 churches had 13 individual stations where the group could rest and worship Christ in various ways, such as singing worship songs, performing dramas, hand interpretations, and even some small sermons.
Terrence Roberts was the organizer for two years for the event after the torch was handed to him by former organizer Sister Andre’ Burkhart from St. Patrick's Church.
"Sister Andre’ asked if I would continue this after her. Last year she was with her mother who was ill, and couldn't be here, but this was originally her brainchild and her heart." Roberts said.
Along with Roberts, roughly 100 people gathered to continue Sister Burkhart's passion; and that passion was about one thing.
"I'm here to celebrate our risen savior," said Melanie Stuckey. "This is the first time I've been able to participate in this, so I'm really excited to be here."
"This symbolizes what Christ went through for us, and we are here to just worship Him for what He's done." Said Brad Hamby of Life Church.
Terrence Roberts also says that the event is important for yet another reason.
"To me, the 'Way of the Cross' is one opportunity to bring unity to the body of Christ," Roberts said. "My personal ministry goal calling is to unify the body of Christ. To see that we are one, and that we can come together; that's something that God has placed on my heart as an individual."
The "Way of the Cross" began it's trek at the steps of the Lauderdale County courthouse, and eventually concluded at Dumont Plaza.

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