Habersham community observes Good Friday with Cross Walk and 3 Crosses display

As people the world over prepare to observe the holiest day on the Christian calendar, hundreds in Habersham took part in Good Friday observances.

The Friday before Easter commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. On Easter Sunday, Christians will celebrate Christ’s resurrection.

Cross Walk

Clarkesville First Methodist Church held its annual Cross Walk on March 29. Participants walked a mile through town carrying small wooden crosses, stopping at different points to worship. Several men led the way, carrying a large wooden cross on their shoulders.

The event began at 10:30 a.m. from the church parking lot on Washington Street. About 75 walkers stopped at the gazebo in downtown Clarkesville for reflection and songs. They returned to the church by way of the Old Clarkesville Cemetery, where they stopped for another brief time of worship and prayer.

Several men carry the large wooden cross out of the parking lot at Clarkesville First Methodist on Washington Street during the church’s annual Good Friday Cross Walk on March 29, 2024. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)
People holding small wooden crosses stream onto city sidewalk from Clarkesville First Methodist Church on Washington Street Friday morning, March 29, 2024. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)
The first stop during the Cross Walk was at the gazebo on the Clarkesville square. (Nora Almazan/Now Habersham)
The Cross Walk departs Old Clarkesville Cemetery. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)

The heart of the Christian message is exemplified on Good Friday in the forgiveness of sin. At each stop, Bible verses were read about Christ’s crucifixion and the events leading up to his death.

3 Crosses

In Demorest, The Torch Worship Center marked Good Friday with its annual 3 Crosses display. In this poignant reenactment, participants stood on wooden crosses on the church lawn, portraying Jesus and the two thieves with whom he was crucified.

The reenactment brought to life the biblical narrative of the Roman soldiers who taunted Christ and the women, including his mother Mary, who wept at his feet.

The Three Crosses Reenactment at The Torch on Cannon Bridge Road (Nora Almazan/Now Habersham)

From 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Friday, automobiles traveled through to witness the event. People came and worshipped throughout the day. Some stood with their arms outstretched in praise while others stood by reverently.

Pastor of The Torch, Mike Franklin, said the day was moving for all who participated.

“Christ died at 3 p.m. with the final words, ‘Father into Thy Hands commend I My Spirit,'” he said. “He is saying in His final Words – I’ve done all I can. I give You everything. And He gives it all to God.”

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