Good Friday is one of the most solemn days in the Christian calendar. Observed during Holy Week on the Friday before Easter Sunday, it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. While its name may seem paradoxical—calling the day of Jesus’ death “good”—it reflects the profound belief that Christ’s suffering and sacrifice paved the way for humanity’s redemption.
A Day of Reflection and Reverence
Unlike the celebratory nature of Easter, Good Friday is marked by mourning, contemplation, and reverence. Churches around the world hold solemn services, often featuring readings of the Passion narratives, veneration of the cross, and moments of silence to reflect on the gravity of Jesus’ sacrifice. In many traditions, the altar is stripped bare, and bells remain silent to echo the somber tone of the day.
Why Is It Called “Good” Friday?
The term “Good Friday” may have evolved from “God’s Friday,” or it could be called “good” in the sense of being holy or spiritually significant. For Christians, the death of Jesus is not seen as a defeat, but as a necessary act of love that made salvation possible. His suffering was the ultimate expression of compassion and obedience to God’s will.
“Good” is believed to have once meant holy or pious (similar to “Good Book” for the Bible).
Christians believe Jesus’s sacrifice led to the possibility of humanity’s salvation, making the day “good” in its spiritual outcome.
What Happened on Good Friday?
According to the New Testament of the Bible, the following events are associated with Good Friday:
- Jesus was betrayed by Judas and arrested.
- He was tried by Jewish and Roman authorities, including Pontius Pilate.
- He was scourged, mocked, and crowned with thorns.
- Jesus carried his cross to the place of execution, Golgotha (also called Calvary).
- He was crucified alongside two criminals.
- After several hours of suffering, Jesus died around 3 p.m.
- His body was taken down and laid in a tomb, setting the stage for the resurrection celebrated on Easter Sunday.
The Seven Last Words Of Christ Upon The Cross
- “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
- “Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
- “Woman, behold your son! Son, behold your mother!”
- “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
- “I thirst.”
- “It is finished.”
- “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”
How Is It Observed?
Different Christian traditions observe Good Friday in various ways:
Catholic and Orthodox:
- Solemn services with scripture readings, prayers, and veneration of the cross.
- The Stations of the Cross are often prayed, recalling the steps of Jesus to Calvary.
- No Mass is celebrated; instead, there is a Communion service using the Eucharist consecrated the day before (Holy Thursday).
Protestant:
- Services may include readings from the Passion narratives, hymns, and periods of silence.
- Some churches hold a “Three Hours’ Agony” service from noon to 3 p.m., reflecting the time Jesus hung on the cross.
Around the World:
- In some countries, processions and reenactments of the Passion are performed.
- It’s a public holiday in many Christian-majority countries, marked by fasting or quiet reflection.
- In the Philippines, devotees reenact the Passion of Christ with processions and sometimes even real-life crucifixions.
- In Italy and Spain, elaborate processions feature statues and symbols of the Passion.
- In the UK and other parts of Europe, hot cross buns are traditionally eaten—each marked with a cross to symbolize the crucifixion.
- Many Christians fast or abstain from meat on Good Friday as an act of penance.
A Time to Pause
Good Friday calls for a moment of stillness in a busy world. It invites believers and non-believers alike to reflect on themes of love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and the resilience of the human spirit. Whether you observe it for religious reasons or view it as a cultural moment, the day holds a powerful message: that even in the midst of darkness, hope is never lost.
Key Themes of Good Friday:
- Sacrifice: Jesus gave his life for others.
- Forgiveness: Jesus prayed for his executioners.
- Redemption: Through death, Christians believe Jesus defeated sin.
- Love: It’s seen as the ultimate act of divine love.
Looking Ahead to Easter
While Good Friday ends in sorrow, it sets the stage for the joy of Easter Sunday. The resurrection of Jesus symbolizes renewal, life, and the victory of light over darkness. Together, these days form a powerful story of faith, redemption, and eternal hope.
