Islington News: The passion of Upper Street, Fred Pledger, St Mary's Church

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Islington Tribune - by PETER GRUNER
Published: 28 March 2008

Fred Pledger carried a 21- kilo cross while leading a procession to St Mary’s Church

The Passion of Upper Street

WITH blood pouring from a real cut on his bare feet and wearing just a white robe against the biting cold, Highbury man Fred Pledger made a rather convincing Jesus on Good Friday.
On top of that, City pub worker Mr Pledger, 46, had to stagger half a mile along Upper Street carrying a wooden cross measuring 7 feet by 3 feet across and weighing 21 kilos.
Mr Pledger, from Gallia Road, led a colourful procession of several hundred Easter worshippers from the N1 centre at the Angel to St Mary’s Church, Upper Street.
A member of St John Evangelist church, Duncan Terrace Mr Pledger said he’d cut his foot on a piece of glass in Upper Street.
“There was a chap walking in front of me inspecting the pavements as we progressed along the pavement but missed the shards of glass which were quite tiny,” he said. “I was looking down but even I missed it.”
Carrying the cross for 25 minutes brought tears to his eyes he admitted. “The tears weren’t from the cut or cold or having to carry the cross which was quite heavy - but because I suffer from hayfever.
“As for my bare feet, well, I tried without success to buy Jesus sandals for the event.
“But I couldn’t find them anywhere.”
Mr Pledger who is planning to study for the Catholic priesthood is a part-time pub worker and film extra. I was a bit apprehensive when they asked if I would carry the cross,” he said. “But I watched one or two films about Jesus and became quite inspired.”
Following the procession the service was led by Canon Dr Graham Kings and the congregation sang ‘When I Survey the Wondrous Cross’. Rev Evan Jones from St James church, Prebend Street, lead a meditation.

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