One Valley church is tells the Easter story in a powerful way

CALWA, Calif. (KFSN) -- All over the Valley churches have several events planned to celebrate Easter weekend. But for one Catholic church, Good Friday offered a chance to tell the Easter story in a very powerful way.

Parishioners at St. Anthony Mary Claret Church re-enacted the steps leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ during a service and procession. Maria Macias held a cross with a message. "No more discrimination, no more alcohol and no more violence."

Prayers were held at 14 stations of the cross as the massive procession made its way through the neighborhood near Calwa. Hundreds of people followed the route on foot.

"What we try to do here, and not only today but during all of lent, especially with the way of the cross, is connect the cross and suffering with Jesus with our own suffering-- and I think when we do that our faith deepens," said Father Art Gramaje, St. Anthony Mary Claret Church.

Father Art was pleased to see so many kids in the crowd. He said the procession helps them see the world in a different way.

"It's very important, because most of our young people in society are really, sometimes, going away from the church. Many of them are getting into drugs and stuff like that," said Alberto Alvarez, Religious Education Coordinator.

It was a time for many parents to pass down a family tradition.

"I stay together with the people and celebrate Jesus, who died for us because of love," said Macias.

The procession has grown over the years, attracting many people from outside the parish to share in the celebration.

"I think it's the power of the cross in our lives," said

St. Anthony Mary Claret Church is not one of the Valley's bigger churches but Father Art tells Action News he expects more than 2,000 people for his Easter Sunday masses.