This Friday marks one of the most significant days in the Christian calendar and churches across Leicester will unite to mark the occasion. A gathering is to be held in Humberstone Gate at 11am on Friday 18th April which will involve retelling the Easter story in front of crowds from Leicester and the wider Leicestershire area.
Good Friday is a significant day in Holy Week, as it represents the day when Jesus died on the cross, and as such it is often seen as a time to reflect before the celebrations of Easter Sunday when Jesus is resurrected. For many Christians, they will observe Good Friday by attending special services, and it is also a national public holiday.
Traditionally, Leicester’s event has been organised by Christ in the Centre, but due to a lack of funding, it has been replaced this year by Leicester @ the Cross. All parts of the Christian church have helped with the arrangements, and they will portray the Easter story through the use of different mediums. The performance will last for approximately 45 minutes, and will include dance, mime and narration.
The event will also feature music, and people are expected to sing traditional Easter hymns as they worship. Creative ways will help to tell the Easter story, because it allows the church to engage with the wider community and commemorate one of the holiest days in the Christian faith. Up to four thousand people are expected to attend, gathering from miles around to watch the performance and join together in prayer.
The Venerable Dr Tim Stratford, Archdeacon of Leicester, has been in charge of the proceedings, and will be present on the day. In a statement from Leicester @ the Cross, he said: “I am looking forward to a fresh approach as we observe events that have shaped our culture from the beginning of Christianity.”
People are welcome from all backgrounds, whether they are of other faiths or non-religious and it is hoped that members of the community will join in commemorating the holy event.
