The Way of the Cross: A Passion Pilgrimage Through Song – A Broadcast from Jerusalem: A Passion Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

The seventh and final virtual event in the Notre Dame Folk Choir’s The Way of the Cross series followed the choir from South Bend, IN, to the Holy Land. The Folk Choir’s summer pilgrimage to Jerusalem and surrounding areas allowed the artists to explore the places they have been singing and writing about for the past two years; the trip culminated with several days of recording sessions capturing the Passion performance. This event featured series moderator J.J. Wright as well as other campus and Folk Choir figures who shared their experiences on the pilgrimage. 

Before departing campus, the Folk Choir and others leaving on pilgrimage joined together at the Grotto. Wright and Fr. McCormick both led prayers, preparing the travelers for the opportunities ahead and easing whatever nervousness or apprehension might have been circulating. They prayered for safety, peace of mind, and blessings from God before the journey. 

Following their prayers stateside on campus, the event journeyed to the Holy Land. As video footage of the Sea of Galilee and the city of Jerusalem appeared on screen, students shared their reflections on what the trip or particular experiences have meant to them. Grace Murphy boldly acknowledged the growth and humility she had experienced as a new visitor to the Holy Land. Beyond walking the streets of Jerusalem with Christ, Murphy acknowledged how special it was to be wandering and singing with her friends and those she has found ministry with during her time at Notre Dame. William Geoffroy narrated the choir’s day in Jerusalem, from a visit to the Mount of Olives onward following the steps Jesus once took. 

While many may envision the city of Jerusalem being a quiet, reverent place, Murphy observed the liveliness of the shops they passed. Jesus too experienced the city as a vibrant and bustling place, so perhaps it made the Folk Choir’s experience more realistic and paralleled what Jesus encountered. Beyond the busy city, the Folk Choir walked the stations of the Cross, putting their hands in a mark left by Jesus when he gave Simon his cross. Anna Staud took great meaning from the visit to the seventh station because she dedicated significant time to writing the lyrics for the Veronica song in their Passion project. Murphy offered a reflection during the choir’s visit to Magdala and shared her experience with emotional barriers. She encouraged the choir to open their hearts to their own emotions and confide in those navigating life beside them. Additionally, she connected intercessions in prayer with the need to have support through life.

As they journeyed around the land, the Folk Choir stopped in particularly impactful places to sing songs from their Passion and other prayers, like the “Our Father.” 

Visit the event page for more.