Crucifix again raised on cathedral grounds in preparation for Holy Week 2026

On a cold and blustery spring day, a crucifix was again raised on the grounds of the Cathedral of the Holy Family in preparation for Holy Week in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Bishop Mark Hagemoen joined the volunteer work crew to raise the outdoor cross at the Saskatoon cathedral on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

The crucifix was rebuilt this year on a more stable, taller tree trunk now serving as the cross. Preparing and raising the cross were Curtis Mann, Derek Boldt, and Jon and Finn Neufeld.

(Photo by Bishop Mark Hagemoen)

The crucifix was first raised on the cathedral grounds in 2020, when COVID-19 pandemic restrictions prevented many from venerating the cross during traditional Good Friday solemn liturgies. The tradition has continued each year since.

A Lenten 40 relay run will start and end at the foot of this cross on Saturday, March 28, when runners will tackle four legs of a 41.9 km pilgrimage course through Saskatoon’s river valley, before returning to the foot of the cross to conclude the event combining the physical and the spiritual.

Related: Parish Easter Triduum schedules – LINK

Photos

The cross was raised on the cathedral grounds by (l-r) Derek Boldt, Finn Neufeld, Jon Neufeld, Bishop Mark Hagemoen, and Curtis Mann. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski)