BELLEVILLE, Ill. – It is holy week and a good Friday tradition here at the national shrine of our lady of the snows in Belleville, Illinois, is the annual walk of the stations of the cross.

“For us as Christians and Catholics, we are people of hope. So the good of Good Friday is that Jesus has one new life for us,” said Salvador Gonzalez. “He paid the price so we can live.”

The Shrine, an outdoor sanctuary for some, is filled with gardens, paths and places of peace for those seeking solace or prayer.

On the Friday before Easter, hundreds walked the almost mile-long stations of the cross, which is in the shape of a cross.

Along the peaceful, tree-lined road, the story of Jesus betrayal and crucifixion is told.

In years past, a familiar face, Father Allen Maes, a Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate priest—a friend to many—died recently. He will be remembered at a mass on Tuesday at the Shrine.

“Father Alan Mayes was originally from Chester, Illinois, just like Popeye. And like Popeye, he entertains many,” Gonzalez said. “Mission a pastor or preacher, somebody that they knew how to reach people at the human level and if there are two words that describe by the Alan made the kindness and generosity, I would add happiness and joy, too.”