CHURCHES from across Stroud united for Good Friday yesterday, for the 'Walk of Witness' which sees Christians marching through towns across the country to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

In Stroud, they first gathered at the top of the High Street, making their way down to Kings Street before heading off to the Subscription Rooms and later finishing at Cornhill Market Place.

They stopped five times, pausing for readings and music - an homage to the Stations of the Cross Jesus undertook on his way to the spot outside Jerusalem where he was crucified.

The Walk of Witness “is the pinnacle of our celebrations as Christians,” said Stroud Christian Fellowship’s Mark Pearson, the longest serving pastor in the area. Other attendees underlined the “poignancy” of the commemoration. “[Resurrection] Sunday is the day of joy, but today is the day of pain,” one told the SNJ.

Another attendee marched with a cross in his pocket which was given to him by a Ethiopian refugee on a visit to the migrant encampment in Calais.

Escorting the walkers were Stroud’s Special Constabulary, a volunteer force that staved off traffic and were prepared to intervene in the unlikely event anyone tried to disrupt the march.

Church-goers no doubt felt at ease under the watchful eye of Special Constable Brian Hewlett, who has helped manage events in Stroud for about 45 years.

Walks or Marches of Witness are a national event, however the Stroud march was organised by Churches Together in Stroud, an umbrella organisation for the town’s Christian community.

The group puts aside theological differences to meet regularly for fundraising events and Christmas celebrations, a member of the Salvation Army told the SNJ.

Church doors will be open across Stroud this Sunday for further Easter services.