In Sydney, the Wesley Mission celebrated its 52nd "Way of the Cross" procession, from Martin Place to the Wesley Theatre in Pitt Street. This year a record crowd of approximately 600 participated, led by Paul Cattanach (28) playing the role of Jesus.
A banner carried towards the rear of the crowd included the logo of Wesley Mission and the wording: "Serving People – Building Hope – Honouring God" in bold lettering.
This year, the main characters were dressed in modern-day style clothing, which differed to previous years when theatrical costumes set the scene for the betrayal, enacted on the amphitheatre stage in Martin Place, to the procession along Pitt Street.
Burly guards were in black, security type outfits. "Simon" was called out of the crowd to help carry the cross, but he too wore contemporary shirt and jeans, with baseball cap.
Media photographers captured the scene and their photos appeared across the country.
The Wesley Mission Superintendent, Reverend Dr Keith Garner, was interviewed and explained that: "Jesus' death and resurrection showed that God loves a confused and broken world like ours.
"When the world is questioning why these (recent world) disasters happen, it is the very time when we want to be doing this." There is hope, in Jesus.
When the procession reached the Wesley Mission, 400 participants entered Wesley Theatre for the special Good Friday Service. There they were presented with the "opportunity to reflect on the passion of Jesus Christ, his love for us and gift of a new beginning."
A witness had been given to the crowds along the route; to the supporters and participants and through the media, that the real meaning of Easter is the story of Christ crucified on a cross, jeered by the world, but determined to fulfil His calling, as Saviour of the world.