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Catholic faithful trek to Mt. Tapochao in Good Friday tradition
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Posted on Mar 25 2005
Hundreds of people hiked to the peak of Mt. Tapochao early yesterday morning as part of the Lenten observance of Good Friday, the Roman Catholic tradition that remembers the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ.
As part of tradition, the trek was highlighted by the carrying of a huge wooden cross from Mt. Carmel Cathedral to the top of the mountain.
The cross reached the base of the mountain at 10am.
People started arriving in the area as early as five in the morning, with some observers thinking the cross would be carried up earlier in the morning.
Before the procession to the mountain, Catholic volunteers read excerpts of the Passion of Jesus Christ.
Top officials from various government agencies joined hundreds of the Catholic faithful as they followed the cross being carried by community volunteers to the peak. A Mass was then held after the cross finally reached the top of Mt. Tapochao.
Government and private agencies provided free drinks and snacks to ease the pilgrims’ journey.
Earlier in the day, major thoroughfares were almost deserted as majority of vehicles were parked at the base of the mountain on Capitol Hill.
Men from the Department of Public Safety regulated the traffic going to the peak.
The Saipan Mayor’s Office spearheaded the preparation for this season, cleaning up the road leading to the summit and coordinating with DPS for the security and safety of the observers.
According to Tony Benavente, public information officer of the Saipan Mayor’s Office, this tradition has been part of the island’s culture and has also become a tourist attraction for the island. The observance yesterday was also a reason for families and friends to strengthen their relationship and faith in God and with one another, especially during Lent.
