Good Friday, also known as Holy Friday or Easter Friday is a Christian festival that is celebrated to commemorate the crucifixion of Lord Jesus Christ and his death. According to the scriptures, Lord Jesus sacrificed himself for the good of humankind. Thus the word ‘good’ in Good Friday means pious or holy. The date of Good Friday varies every year depending on both the Julian and Gregorian calendars.
HISTORY
Lord Jesus was crucified on a wooden cross by the Roman soldiers most likely between AD 30 and 33. It is said that he suffered on the cross for over six hours. In the last three hours, the land turned completely dim, and Lord Jesus gave up his spirits with a loud cry. Later, his body was wrapped in a linen shroud and was taken with Joseph of Arimathea (the man who assumed responsibility for the burial) and positioned under his own new tomb. Thus, the day is also known as Black Friday, or some call it ‘God’s Friday’.
People observe this day in such a way that as if something sad and dreadful happened. But Christians also believe that Lord Jesus gave up his life for the good of the people.
SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPORTANCE
On this day, church services are done at 3 pm. Everybody, including the priest, wears black clothes today. Even Christians avoid lighting a candle, and the decorations from the statues are removed. To signify mournings, the paintings, cross and some homes are covered with a black robe. Some churches enact the entire scene and spread the words of Jesus among people.
Traditions, rituals and type of celebration vary because on one side it was the death of Lord Jesus that makes people sad but on the other hand, the rebirth brings in hope. Many people on the day keep fast, say prayers and giving offerings to the poor. People refuse to eat meat on this day, and they bake hot cross buns as per the tradition.
Due to the nationwide lockdown amid the novel coronavirus, this year all churches in the country have chosen to conduct church services using live streaming.
