Christians of the world celebrate Good Friday

People in Sydney marked Good Friday with a modern take on the traditional Way of the Cross procession. An actor dressed as Jesus carried a large, wooden cross through the streets of the city, flanked by actors dressed as policemen and dozens of onlookers.  

While in Jerusalem, Christian pilgrims crowded the cobblestone alleyways of the old city to mark Good Friday, walking along the route they believe Christ took as he walked to his crucifixion.   Thousands, many carrying large wooden crosses, walked along the Via Dolorosa, Latin for "Way of Suffering," a route that ends at the ancient Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the site of the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection, according to Christian belief.  

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Fouad Twal, marched with the pilgrims after celebrating the Passion of the Lord mass. Catholics and Orthodox Christians follow different calendars, this year the Orthodox Church will commemorate Good Friday on Friday April 13.  

In Guatemala, locals kicked off holy week with a procession through the streets of Antigua.  

Thousands have gathered in the Philippines to witness devotees nailed to crosses as they mark Good Friday by re-enacting Jesus Christ's suffering. The yearly rites continue even as Roman Catholic Church leaders discourage the practice.     

Nine men were crucified for a few minutes in Pampanga province's San Pedro Cutud village, while at least eight others were crucified in neighboring villages.     

Many take part to atone for sins, pray for the sick or a better life or give thanks for what they believe were miracles. Friday's crucifixion was the 26th for Ruben Enaje, a 51-year-old sign painter. He began his yearly rite after surviving a fall from a building.     

The spectacle is a unique brand of Catholicism that merges church traditions with Philippine folk superstitions.  

AP