By Oniska Blevins | The Selma Times-Journal

The sound of whips cracking and cries of condemnation echoed through downtown Selma Friday as members of Gateway Ministries held its 26th annual “Walk to Calvary.”

The three-day reenactment of Jesus Christ’s trial, death and resurrection started Thursday and will conclude Sunday morning.

Rod Rochester, founder of “Walk to Calvary,” felt he was called by God to start the event, and even after so many years he still feels the message is the same.

“By the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus we have salvation,” he said.

Through the years there have been mixed responses from onlookers, but the ministry’s goal is for people to get to know Jesus Christ, and through knowing him have eternal life.

The church puts great detail into each day of the reenactment, basing everything on biblical scripture. Members are dressed as Roman soliders and onlookers.

It starts on the first day with Jesus praying in the garden of Gethsemane and being betrayed by his disciple Judas.

Christ’s trial is the next day, as well as the crucifixion.

Sunday, the last day, members reenact the discovery of Jesus’ resurrection.

Kim Walker Crowe, reenactment organizer grew up participating in the reenactment and believes it is a good way to take ministry to the streets.

“I think it is a great street ministry for Selma,” she said.

“We have churches coming from out of town to Selma to be a part of it.”

Crowe said she has been a witness to the life altering affects the reenactment has had on people.

She said after seeing it one year, an alcoholic of many years changed his life and became a pastor.

“It seems to be an impact to everyone who sees it,” she said.

She said the positive effects of the event have no bounds and reaches people far more than in just the Selma area.

“We’ve reached more people than just Selma, and that is a great testimony for anyone that’s involved,” she said.

Crowe said she hopes the reenactment continues to bring positive change and when people see it they understand that even in turmoil there is hope.