The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal who have recently established a community in Moyross in Limerick brought the stations of the cross to each of the parks in the northside estate when they held a passion play this Saturday, March 1, culminating in a re-enactment of the crucifixion.

The Northside Regeneration Agency, Limerick Youth Service, the Limerick gospel choir and the Carambola Kids, all made their contribution to the event, which commenced at noon,at the Watch House Cross car park.

Free sandwiches and drinks were provided, while children from the locality put on a dance routine for the assembled crowd.

The stations of the cross started at 1pm and began its route through Moyross, stopping at the green in different estates.

Musicians, David Blake and Robert Jordan, provided music during the walk between stations.

The final station took place outside the monks residence in Delmege Park where the end of the passion play and crucifixion was played out by five members of the Impact Theatre company.

Craevel Park native, Adrienne Lee, was cast as Mary, while Fr David Bracken, St Nicholas Church, played Jesus.

Many of the children in the neighbourhood were taking part.

Franciscan Friars

Known for their work in tough urban areas of New York, London, Honduras and Albuquerque, the friars moved into the Limerick housing estate last July.

Since then Br Shawn, Fr Sylvester and Br Martin from America, Fr Paulus from Germany, and Br Seraphim from France-have fostered a deeper spiritual renewal among the residents.

On a daily basis they can be seen walking through the estate's green areas and going about their daily business.

The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal were founded in New York's South Bronx by eight Capuchin friars in 1987.

Their mission is to serve the materially poor and to evangelise in the Church through preaching and teaching the Gospel, and by sharing the rich treasures of the Catholic faith with all.