Crossing city streets with Christ
Events
In a moving public expression of faith and a historic first in the heart of Adelaide, more than 1500 members of the Syro-Malabar Catholic community took part in a Good Friday Way of the Cross procession on April 18.
The journey began at the Torrens Parade Ground and continued down the iconic King William Street, ending in heartfelt prayers in front of the 14-foot crucifix erected at Victoria Square in the city centre. The striking visual demonstration of devotion transformed city streets into a modern-day Via Dolorosa.
The Syro-Malabar Catholic community taking part in a Good Friday Way of the Cross procession on April 18 2025.
The event was a collaborative effort spearheaded by three local Syro-Malabar parishes; St. Alphonsa Forane Church, St. Mary’s Parish, and St. Euphrasia Parish.
Under the spiritual leadership of Rev. Dr. Siby Kurian Pulickal and Rev. Fr. Abraham Kazhunadiyil, the parishes worked together to foster unity and showcase their shared heritage of faith. Representatives from the Syro Malabar Youth Movement (SMYM) said it was not just an event but a joint mission to reaffirm Christian identity in the heart of a multicultural city.
The procession featured 53 altar servers, 14 international students adorned in traditional white shirts and orange mundus, and a youth-led passion play that stirred hearts.
The Syro-Malabar Catholic community taking part in a Good Friday Way of the Cross procession on April 18 2025.
These symbols of reverence and cultural pride were a deeply personal reflection of Christ’s suffering and the community’s longing to stand as witnesses to His love, even in the public square.
Many people kneeled down to show respect to the Lord during each station of the Way of the Cross and some onlookers made the sign of the cross and knelt down when the procession was passing.
The event was a credit to the leadership and coordination exhibited by the Syro-Malabar Youth Movement who played an integral part in preparing for the Way of the Cross procession.
The youth were supported by parish trustees, council members, catechism teachers, safeguarding officers, youth animators and volunteers of all ages.
Many parishioners underwent specific training to support the youth in managing the procession, maintaining order and preserving a sustaining environment. Organisers said their unwavering sense of dedication and commitment was a testament to the power of community when rooted in faith.
Although this marked the third regional Syro-Malabar Way of the Cross in Adelaide, it was the first time the event unfolded on public city streets. Previously confined to park settings, this bold move into Adelaide’s urban heart marked a significant milestone, not just for the local parishes but for the entire Syro-Malabar Eparchy of St Thomas the Apostle, Melbourne.
It was a historic act of witness, boldly claiming space for faith in the public sphere.
