This Friday, Christians across the globe will mark Good Friday, a somber day to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a reminder of his sacrifice and a day of reflection. Jesus was crucified on Good Friday by the Romans after he was charged with blasphemy for saying that he was the Son of God, as per the New Testament.
The Roman governor Pontius Pilate condemned him to death, and Jesus was publicly beaten, made to carry a wooden cross, and nailed by his wrists and feet to it until his death. Christians hold that his death paid for the sins of humanity. In India, it is a holiday of public observance, with banks, schools, the stock market, and public offices closed.
When is Good Friday?
Good Friday occurs within Paschal Triduum, an event that covers three days: beginning with Maundy Thursday (the Last Supper) and ending with evening prayers on Easter Sunday. On April 18, 2025, Good Friday will fall.
Why is it called ‘Good’ Friday?
Even though it is a day of mourning, it is due to the fact that Christians hold the belief that the crucifixion of Jesus as a sacrifice for the salvation of humankind. The word ‘Good’ is said to have been derived from ‘God’s Friday’. Good Friday symbolizes the sufferings of Jesus and submission to God, showing the ultimate act of sacrifice for the salvation of humankind. It is an integral part of Christian theology, a day of penance and remembrance of the sins of human beings.
Traditions and Rituals on Good Friday
Good Friday is not a feast day but an observant day. The churches all around read from passion narratives, chant remorseful and reflective hymns, and offer prayers for pardon. Some of the churches recite the Stations of the Cross too, an exercisiedevotion marking the steps that Jesus took on the way to Calvary symbolizing his ordeal.
Good Friday traditions and practices vary from country to country but are most commonly involve fasting, charity, reading the Bible, and attendance in church services.
Fasting and Abstinence
Most Christians abstain and fast from meat or certain foods on Good Friday as a form of penance. This is in reference to the sacrifice of Jesus and calls for devotion to living a better life.
Processions and Reenactments
Processions and reenactments of Christ’s Passion happen in other parts of the country. These use biblical attire as they try to recreate Jesus’ trial, burial, and crucifixion scenes.
Reading of the Scriptures
Part of keeping Good Friday is reading and reflecting on passages about Jesus’ arrest, trial, crucifixion, and death. Church organizations’ reading groups and family readings participate in these activities to read and absorb the messages contained in these scriptures.
Charity
In the spirit of selflessness, Good Friday promotes acts of charity. Christians participate in service activities such as volunteering at shelters, serving food, or visiting the sick, following Jesus’ example of loving and serving others.
When is Easter 2025?
Easter in 2025 will be observed on Sunday, April 20, by the majority of Christians, both Protestants and Catholics. Orthodox Christians also celebrate Easter on this date this year, and it won’t happen again until 2028.
