President Karol Nawrocki took part in the 11th Night Mystery of the Cross in Gdańsk. On Friday evening, the penitential procession set off from the St. Gertrude’s Bastion and reached St. Mary’s Basilica.
Solemn observances
The event, inspired by the 14th-century Andalusian tradition of Semana Santa, had a raw and ascetic character. The central element of the procession was a six-meter, empty cross carried by hooded men. The President accompanied the faithful along the route, which led through Plac Wałowy, Żabi Kruk Street, and Długi Targ, all the way to St. Mary’s Basilica.
According to the organizers, the aim of the Night Mystery is a profound reflection on the mystery of Christ’s death and a summary of the Good Friday liturgy. This year’s edition, attended by the head of state, gathered a large group of residents of Gdańsk as well as faithful from across the archdiocese.
For 11 years, the Night Mystery of the Cross has been a permanent part of the Holy Week observances in Gdańsk.