The annual procession by Catholic Charities' El Centro was dedicated to the poor and disenfranchised this year.
TRENTON -- Dripping blood and repeatedly whipped by centurions, Jesus Christ carried a cross through the streets of Trenton's South Ward Friday as the faithful followed and prayed.
The annual Stations of the Cross procession, staged by Catholic Charities' El Centro, was dedicated to the poor and disenfranchised this year, said El Centro Director Roberto Hernandez.
So for one of the early stations, Hernandez said, they stopped at a local bar at Centre and Fedreal streets.
"We're hoping to lift their spirits a little," Hernandez said. "Alcoholism is a problem in the area."
The procession, in its 16th year, also stopped at other strategic locations - like the Engine 3 / Ladder 2 firehouse in homage to city firefighters - before concluding with the re-enactment of the crucifixion of Jesus at St. Stanislaus Church on Randall Avenue.
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Hernandez said the goal - and his hopes every year - is for the stations to inspire anyone in need, whether it's counseling, or if they need to attend an Alcoholics Anonymos meeting, to reach out to El Centro.
"We want to build a bridge from our faith to the community," he said.
The stations wound through several city streets, bringing onlookers from their homes and stopping the everyday activity of the city for a few moments.
At St. Stanislaus, when a blue tarp was dropped and attendees saw Jesus on the cross, a few gasped and the street fell silent in prayer.
Jesus Chris was portrayed this year by Ricky Rodriguez.
Kevin Shea may be reached at kshea@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@kevintshea. Find The Times of Trenton on Facebook.