Since I also celebrate Mass in the local parish church of Naxxar, I am overwhelmed with the work that goes on by the sacristan Godwin and his helpers to dress up the entire church for Lent and Holy Week. All the statues that are part of the Good Friday procession are displayed around the church, besides other banners, symbols and Passion paraphernalia that are carried by children, young people and adults dressed in what people used to wear in Jesus’ time. There are around 21 parishes in the Maltese islands that organize these processions with around 10 to 14 statues carried through the streets of each town and village.
The Naxxar church is impressive as the walls are covered with black tapestry or damask, a pain-staking job done every year, just as they are done in red tapestry during the feast of the Nativity of Mary in September each year, and also for the Christmas season. In fact from Good Friday to Holy Saturday, in less than 24 hours, all this tapestry is taken down and the sanctuary area is covered with red tapestry to celebrate the Easter season. Also between Friday and Saturday the statues are removed and stored for another year, thanks to the help of many volunteers. (Please click on each photo to enlarge)
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