Way of the Cross

Before we left for San Salvador we were privileged to be invited to walk the way of the cross with the people of Alejandria where many of the pastoral team live. Each Friday evening in Lent it is the custom of many to make shrines for the 14 stations and walk the way of the cross saying a prayer, scripture, and commentary at each station. They process from station to station singing hymns and being led by someone holding a cross decorated in purple and white.

The shrines range from quite elaborate with lovely cloth as background to very humble with newspaper instead of cloth. They all have colorful flowers taken from the trees and bushes in the area, a framed picture depicting the particular station and a candle that is lit when you arrive at the station.

Some kneel in the dirt and others stand. The stations are dismantled after we pass and the flowers are often brought along as we go.

Some walk the road barefoot.

Usually the person who assembled the station is honored to light the candle. Adults and young people take turns doing the readings at each location.

At the final station many leave the flowers they have brought from the other stations. They pass the peace and disperse to their homes. It was a lovely, spiritual, and peaceful way to bring the message of Lent and Easter close.

The next day (Saturday) we took the bus to San Salvador and are now comfortable in the Hotel Gracia Real. It's always an adventure to take the bus and many think it dangerous but all went smoothly and we arrived safely and in good time. Today we will explore a bit of the city, walking on Constitution Ave. which is closed on Sunday mornings for walking, biking, snacking and general recreation. Then we hope to get down around the cathedral which is currently occupied by former combatants in a dispute with the government over pensions. An election observer from Norway is scheduled to meet with the occupiers today. A few others are here already so we are starting to meet some of the 100 or so observers in the delegation. Some of Warren's friends from past delegations are here so it will be fun to become reacquainted.