While Raphael and his players prepare for their presentation Sister Miriam sets us off with the first two Stations outside the Montenegro chapel. In the beginning our numbers were decidedly light, however, we grew in numbers as we progressed.The park in the background was to be the scene for the final stages of the re-enactment.
We began our walk with great enthusiasm, however, after a short time I realised that the leaders were not quite sure of the journey and it was almost like playing a game of 'Where's the next Station?' In fact in one of the following shots you will see a picture of a young man in a yellow shirt with number four on his a back, well he was the cause of a few wrong turns, and they said he was a local!
No fear, it all worked out and it was an amazing experience just to trail along and soak up the atmosphere, although I do think that it may have been all too much for two small local members of the community!
We really loved the motor taxi which doubled as a sound van, nothing like our Mildura version which Des sets up each year.
Various local families are offered the opportunity to set up stations along the way. They decorate their tables with holy pictures, flowers, candles and water. The water is most important because, as we moved off, liberal amounts were sprinkled on all and sundry. The families would also offer a small drink to all those who are on the walk. I would say that it would be an honour to be asked to set up one of the stations.
The crowd from all the chapels gather together after their walks.
Jesus is assisted by Simon to carry the cross. Simon's real name is Michael, he is a German boy working on a voluntary basis in the Montenegro area with the handicapped children.
Veronica offers care and attention as Jesus falls again.
Jesus' mother and disciples watch on from the foot of the small hill.
The final stages showing Jesus' crucifixion and death, also the women and other disciples all gathering around.All throughout the final stages of this enactment this young man played an unbelievably haunting piece on his flute. It really helped to create the atmosphers.
The general crowd were surprisingly reverent and quiet, no yelling, screaming or even laughing. In fact Marion and I both wondered what sort of impact such graphic scenes have on the younger children.
Father Mick expresses his thanks to the players for their efforts and to the crowd for processing from their various chapels for the final stages of the Stations. The leading musician, Joao, is far left and Raphael, the director, is second from the left. Both are fantastic young men.
