On Good Friday, a group of lay faithful, religious, and priests gathered in the heart of Seoul to celebrate an Ecological Way of the Cross, beginning at Gwanghwamun Square and concluding in front of Myeongdong Cathedral.
By Kyoung Ho Han *
Around fifty participants took part in this public prayer. Divided into two groups, we walked the streets of the city carrying the Cross, remembering not only the suffering of Christ but also all the suffering present in today’s world.
During the celebration, Fr. Geoffrey Boriga, IMC, recently assigned to the Korean community, proclaimed and led the meditation for the Thirteenth Station, while the reflection for the Fourteenth Station was guided by Fr. Han Kyoung Ho, IMC.
Celebrating every year on Good Friday the Way of the Cross in the streets of Seoul, becomes an opportunity to read the liturgical meditations with a prophetic JPIC (Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation) perspective. In the light of the Cross, we recognize the deep connection between human suffering and the wounds of our common home.
The participation of Fr. Geoffrey was a joyful sign for everyone present. He recently returned to South Korea after completing his biblical studies in Rome, Italy. As a missionary, he will continue to take part actively in the JPIC activities of the Korean community, walking together with others in the mission of justice, peace, and care for creation.
The Way of the Cross began with the “Prayer for Our Earth,” entrusting to God our commitment to protect life, defend the poor, and care for our common home.
Walking together through the streets, we experienced once again that even in the peripheries marked by suffering and injustice, the Cross of Christ continues to open a path toward hope, reconciliation, and the healing of creation.
* Father Kyoung Ho Han, IMC, member of the National Reconciliation Commission.
