Good Friday in Chicago: Live reenactments and early crowds highlight Holy Week events

CHICAGO — Attendees arrived at Holy Name Cathedral hours before its Good Friday observance. It was just one of many Holy Week events taking place across the Chicago area.

Cardinal Blase Cupich was even in attendance at Holy Name’s Good Friday observance.

Earlier in the day, churches in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood observed Good Friday with a live reenactment of the 14 Stations of the Cross, representing the story of Jesus’ crucifixion.

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The cherished tradition attracts thousands of people each year.

For the first time ever, the opening scenes started on a stage located at 18^th & Halsted Streets, moving its traditional start inside of a church.

 Dozens of people helped portray Jesus’ final days, including the Last Supper and crucifixion.

WGN’s Emmy Victor asked those who gathered at Holy Name Cathedral why they decided to arrive hours before the observance.

“Jesus’ death was at three. We came to pray for his death. He suffered for all of us and I feel like we take that for granted,” Camila Rubio said. “We came to say thank you.”