April 21, 2011

A Dramatic Passion of Christ In Rhodes


For years a dramatic re-enactment of the Passion of Christ takes place at Saint Nicholas Church in Pastidas, Rhodes. It is put on by the Cultural Association of Pastida "Kammari" ("Pride").

This event takes place on Holy Thursday night during the service when 12 Gospel readings recall the Passion of Christ and there is a procession of Christ crucified within the church. Young men dress as Roman soldiers and stand at the foot of the Cross to dramatically represent the historical event as a living event remembered every Holy Thursday.

On Great Friday evening young women also stand near the tomb of Christ, the Epitaphion, to represent the myrrh-bearing women who first saw the risen Christ. During the Lamentations and Procession they throw rose petals. Other children will dress as 1st century Jews who were present at the Passion of Christ.









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