At 80 years old, Antonio Pileggi has been the director of one of Toronto's oldest Good Friday parades for over five decades, and despite his age, he isn't quitting any time soon.

Pileggi, known by many as 'Toto,' handles everything from casting the actors to ensuring everything runs smoothly for the three-hour event.

And while this was his 53rd year organizing the the annual St. Francis of Assisi Church procession, he wasn't just overlooking his actors.

As the scenes played out, Pileggi was a passionate spectator.

"It's too emotional, it just gets your breath away," said Pileggi.

A tradition over 5 decades in the making

Hundreds of spectators gathered beneath a grey sky in Toronto's Little Italy neighbourhood to reflect on Good Friday, believed by Christians to be the day of Jesus's death.

The procession through Little Italy is known by those in the area for its portrayal of Jesus's last moments.

Hundreds of Torontonians came out to witness the annual Good Friday procession in Little Italy. (Michael Charles Cole/CBC)

The commemoration is a combination of religion and tradition. Some members of the St. Francis of Assisi Church community have been participating as volunteers for decades.

Portraying Jesus at the annual procession was Joseph Rauti, who has played the part for some fifty years. He's worn the same wig since 1968 and takes his role seriously, fasting for three days before the event.

Joseph Rauti played Jesus in the 56th annual Good Friday procession. (Michael Charles Cole/CBC)

Rauti's dedication doesn't stop on the streets of Little Italy. Each year he takes his performance inside St. Francis of Assisi Church for practitioners who may not be able to endure a three hour, outdoor parade.

"When I come inside the church, I fall on the floor," said Rauti of the modified act he performs for those inside.

Little Italy's first procession was held more than five decades ago at St. Agnes' Parish by Grace Street and Dundas Street West.

For the last 53 years, Pileggi has been its director and he says he plans to keep directing until he's 110.