Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus on the hill of Calvary, just outside the fortifications of Jerusalem. It falls on the Friday preceding Easter in 2023, which is April 7. The majority of Christian denominations observe Good Friday as a sacred day, with many Catholics, Eastern Orthodox Christians, and Lutherans fasting and attending church services. However, there is so much more to this holiday than these religious observances. Good Friday is a deeply personal day of prayer and devotion for many. Let’s examine more closely.
The background of Good Friday
Good Friday is a Christian religious festival commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary. The holiday is considered part of the Paschal Triduum on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday, which occurs during Holy Week. Additionally known as Good Friday, Black Friday, and Holy Friday. Good Friday is a national holiday in many countries around the world, particularly Catholic and Anglican nations. This solemn day is traditionally observed with fasting and solemn processions.
Good Friday’s precise origins are unknown, but the celebration dates back to the fourth century. An ancient practise for mourning the death of Jesus is fasting and self-restraint. Also obscure is why the holiday is known as Good Friday, although several theories exist. Some believe that ‘God’s Friday’ evolved into ‘Good Friday,’ while religious adherents are adamant that the day is named ‘good’ as a symbol of Jesus and all that he stood for against evildoers. Additionally, it is widely believed that Jesus died on a Friday, but this does not explain the addition of the word “good” to the holiday.
Jesus laid down his life out of compassion for his followers and for all of humanity. His death represented the supreme sacrifice. Despite being a terrible day in history, the event paved the way for the salvation of humanity, as Jesus rose from the dead two days later.
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HOW TO Observe Good Friday
Recite the Lord’s Prayer.
Numerous Christian churches hold prayer services during Christ’s crucifixion hours. Numerous religious individuals observe a period of prayerful stillness during this time, particularly between noon and 3 p.m.
Fast
Depending on your Christian denomination, Good Friday fasting may be appropriate. For instance, it is a traditional day of fasting within the Catholic Church.
Volunteer
Jesus emphasised the importance of assisting those less fortunate than ourselves. Consider volunteering at your church or in your community on this day, if your religious beliefs permit it, in the spirit of giving back.
5 GOOD FRIDAY ODDITIES
The appellation “Good Friday” was first recorded in a text titled “The South English Legend” around the year 1290.
On Good Friday, it is customary in Bermuda to fly a kite, which symbolises both the cross and Jesus’ ascension into paradise.
When Jesus was crucified, according to Christian tradition, there was darkness across the land and a violent earthquake.
On Good Friday, it is customary to consume hot sweet cross buns, which purportedly brings good fortune.
According to a prevalent superstition, a haircut on Good Friday prevents headaches for the remainder of the year.
GOOD FRIDAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | April 2 | Friday |
| 2022 | April 15 | Friday |
| 2023 | April 7 | Friday |
| 2024 | March 29 | Friday |
| 2025 | April 18 | Friday |
