Station 1
Anthrakia (detail), charcoal, stained plywood, size variable. Image courtesy of the artist.
Anthrakia attempts to specifically engage and become part of the church’s service by means of direct dialogue with its altar. An active site and symbol of sacrifice, where the Eucharist is celebrated.
There are only two points in the bible where charcoal fire is featured. Station one documents the first occurrence, where Jesus is condemned to die and consequently Peter denies knowing Jesus three times as he warms his hands above the fire. The second time is at the lakeshore following Jesus’s resurrection where Peter is asked if he loves him three times.
Within this context charcoal is an inexplicable bridge between betrayal, reconciliation and redemption.
It’s enough to ponder this all in isolation without words. To ultimately be left alone in silence to reflect on our own actions and mortality, and how when the time comes we will psychologically prepare ourselves for departing this world.
Meditation
Pilate asked what crime Jesus had committed.
It was a good question.
Jesus had annoyed the religious leaders, of that there was no doubt.
He had been critical of social and religious structures.
He had healed villagers;
He had told stories to the crowds;
He was probably a threat to public law and order;
But was that enough to condemn Him, to end His life?
But He would not defend Himself –
The storyteller was silent now
and the crowd was noisy
and Pilate handed Him over to be crucified.
© Ruth Burgess and Chris Polhill
Eggs and Ashes: Practical & liturgical resources for Lent and Holy Week.
Station Information
- Year: 2016
- Station Number 1
- Jesus is Condemned to Die
- Exhibitor Jacobus Capone
Reading
Jesus was taken in chains to Pilate. The chief priests were accusing Jesus of many things, so Pilate questioned Him. “Aren’t you going to answer?” he said. “Listen to all their accusations.” Jesus refused to say a word and Pilate was amazed.
Pilate spoke to the crowd, “What do you want me to do with the one you call King of the Jews?” They shouted back. “Crucify him!”
‘But what crime has he committed? Pilate asked.
They shouted all the louder, ‘Crucify him!’
Pilate wanted to please the crowd, so he set Barabbas free for them. Then he had Jesus whipped and handed Him over to be crucified.
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