Living Stations of the Cross Set to Thrill at St. Jude Church

MONROE, CT --- The Living Stations of the Cross is a nearly three-decade-long tradition at St. Jude Church, and tonight it continues as strong and vibrant as ever.

"Good Friday is such an important day in our faith, and to see people actually act it all out from the beginning, from the Last Supper until the point where Jesus is crucified and laid in the tomb and resurrected , with song and parishioners dressed in period costumes -- it makes the whole event in history real," said Donna Cramond, who directs the production each year.

None of the performers are professional actors, and for the 19th straight year, every member of the ensemble -- from centurion up through Lord and Savior -- are parishioners at St. Jude.

Cramond believes that one of the most impressive elements of the annual performance is the great number of young people who participate. In fact, Masuk High School freshman Brendan Dauk is entering his second year as "Jesus."

"That's the amazing thing, young people choose to say 'yes' to doing this. So many are heavily involved in other activities that distract them, yet they are so willing to commit this time to their church, I think is wonderful," Cramond said

St. Jude Church is located at 707 Monroe Turnpike in Monroe. The 29th annual Living Stations of the Cross will commence this evening at 7:00.