Followed by about 80 people, Andrew Myers, left, youth minister at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, carries a cross at the head of a procession on Market Street in downtown Parkersburg in the annual Good Friday Stations of the Cross Walk in 2025. This year’s walk, organized by downtown churches, is April 3. The Friday before Easter is observed as Good Friday in recognition of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. (File Photo)

PARKERSBURG — The annual Good Friday Community Stations of the Cross will be held at noon April 3 starting at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 532 Market St.

The interdenominational walk will go to several downtown churches to memorialize Jesus Christ’s journey through Jerusalem on the way to His crucifixion at Golgotha. The event has been held for more than 20 years.

Volunteers at each church will lead one or two stations that include scripture readings and prayers focusing on Christ’s suffering and death, according to organizers Kim Clovis and Everett Orem. Other volunteers will carry a large wooden cross to lead the worshipers to the next church.

“Last year we had over 80 walkers for the event. We would love to have over 100 this year,” Clovis said.

“Those participating have commented on the solemnity of the occasion and how it provides an outward sign of faith to the downtown area,” she said. “Others have stated how much they enjoy being with those from other churches and visiting the downtown worship communities.”

Participating churches in addition to St. Francis Xavier are Downtown Bethel, First Baptist, St. Patrick’s Anglican, St. Paul’s United Methodist, First United Methodist, Trinity Episcopal and the Salvation Army.

“This is a community-wide, interdenominational event, and you do not need to be a member of any particular church to walk with us. All are welcome,” Orem said.

Bus transportation between participating churches has been arranged for those who are unable to walk the 1.3-mile distance. Parking is available at St. Francis Xavier and Trinity Episcopal churches.