A statue of Jesus Christ carrying the cross was solemnly conveyed through Macao’s historic heart over the weekend – flanked by clergymen in purple robes, as well as crowds of spectators.
The first part of the Procession of the Passion of Our Lord, the God Jesus took place on Saturday evening and saw the statue transported from St Augustine’s Church to the city’s cathedral for an overnight vigil.
On Sunday afternoon, the procession returned to St Augustine’s, with worshippers pausing regularly to mark the 14 Stations of the Cross – a series of tableaux depicting Jesus’ sufferings on his way to crucifixion.
[See more: City of the Name of God: A guide to Catholic Macao]
Officially part of Macao’s Intangible Heritage, the annual event has taken place in the city since 1708. The public procession returned to the streets in 2023 after being suspended for three years due the Covid-19 pandemic.
Versions of the procession are observed in many parts of the world as part of Lent, a period of 40 days in the lead up to Easter.
This year, the Catholic procession overlapped with Macao’s Lunar New Year celebrations – highlighting the city’s bicultural heritage and culture.
