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Gene scientist with heavy cross to bear
A SCIENTIST who researches gene therapy – one of a group often accused of “tampering with God’s handiwork” – will carry the cross in the annual Christian churches Easter procession today (Friday).
Sam Stephens, 33, from Angel, will carry the 21-kilo, wooden cross, seven feet by three feet, on the 25-minute procession through Islington.
Mr Stephens, who studies genetic disease control at the University of London, said there was no conflict between being a Christian and researching gene therapy.
“We have very strict rules and I would never do anything unethical or contradict my own religious principles,” he added.
The half-mile Good Friday walk from the N1 Centre to St Mary’s Church, in Upper Street, usually attracts thousands of spectators.
Mr Stephens is wearing sandals today because last year’s cross-bearer, Fred Pledger, insisted on doing it in bare feet and cut his toes on glass on the pavement, ending up with blood on his hands and tunic.
The procession starts from the N1 Centre at noon. |
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