Jerusalem: The ancient Good Friday tradition of the Way of the Cross in Jerusalem was carried out this year by only a small group of Franciscan friars, as ongoing conflict across the Middle East continues to affect religious life in the Holy City.
According to Fr Ibrahim Faltas of the Custody of the Holy Land, just ten Franciscan friars walked along the Via Dolorosa on Good Friday morning, praying and reflecting on the suffering of Jesus. The procession was led by Fr Francesco Ielpo, as large public gatherings remained impossible due to security concerns.
The Easter season, usually marked by large crowds of pilgrims and faithful, has been deeply affected this year. Since late February, the violence in the region has limited access to churches and prevented many from taking part in important liturgies connected to the life, passion and death of Jesus.
Fr Faltas recalled a similar moment in 2020 during the global pandemic, when only a few friars were able to walk the same path under strict restrictions. This year’s situation once again left the streets of the Old City unusually quiet during one of Christianity’s most significant days.
Despite the challenges, the friars continued the centuries old devotion, which recalls the final journey of Jesus carrying the cross. The tradition is closely linked to the holy sites of Jerusalem, where Christians believe these events took place.
The practice of the Way of the Cross has deep roots in history. Early pilgrims such as Egeria documented the devotion, while Saint Francis of Assisi is believed to have inspired its spread through his deep love for the passion of Christ and his connection to the Holy Land.
For nearly seven hundred years, the Franciscans have been entrusted with caring for the holy places. This responsibility was formally confirmed in 1342 by Pope Clement VI, giving them a lasting mission to preserve and celebrate the sacred sites.
Amid the current suffering in the region, Fr Faltas said the small but faithful observance of the Way of the Cross stands as a sign of hope. Even in a land marked by tension and hardship, the memory of Christ’s passion continues to be kept alive.
In a further sign of recognition, Pope Leo XIV has asked former Custos Fr Francesco Patton to prepare this year’s meditations for the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum in Rome, a gesture seen as a moment of grace for the Custody of the Holy Land during a difficult time.