Good Friday

Good Friday is the occasion of the year to commemorate Jesus' death on Calvary, located just outside the walls of Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified. It falls on the Friday before Easter, 2022, which is April 15^th every year. Most Christian denominations recognize Good Friday as a holy day, with many people, including members of the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox and Lutheran beliefs, fasting and attending church services. But there's a lot to this holiday beyond religious rituals. For many people, Good Friday is a day of intense prayer and personal devotion. Let's take a closer look.

History of Good Friday

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary is commemorated on Good Friday - a Christian religious holiday. Taking place during Holy Week, the holiday is considered part of the Passover Triduum on the Friday before Easter Sunday. This day is also widely known as Great Friday, Black Friday or Good Friday. Good Friday is a public holiday in many countries around the world, especially in Catholic and Anglican countries. Fasting is the traditional way to observe this solemn day, followed by silent processions.

There is no official evidence about the origins of Good Friday, however, the celebration dates back to the 4th century. Fasting and setting limits on yourself to mourn the death of Jesus is an ancient custom. The reason for the name of Good Friday is unknown, however, there are a lot of different theories. Some believe that 'God's Friday' evolved into 'Good Friday', while devotees firmly believe that the day was named 'auspicious' as a symbol of Jesus and everything he represents for evildoers. It is also believed that Jesus died on a Friday, but this does not explain the addition of the word 'good' to the holiday.

Jesus gave his life out of love for his followers and for all mankind. His death is the ultimate sacrifice. Although it was a terrible day in history, this event paved the way for mankind's salvation, with Jesus being resurrected two days later.

Symbol

Good Friday is celebrated in memory of the Passion, crucifixion, and death of Christ. The most important symbol of Good Friday is the crucifix, or crucifix, which symbolizes the way Jesus died. Some crosses bear the image of Christ. Other symbols of Good Friday include the black cloth used to cover the cross, paintings and statues in churches and some houses to signify mourning. Also, some people intentionally create a naked look in their homes and churches by removing all flowers and shiny objects.

How to celebrate Good Friday

Many people in different countries celebrate the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ on the Friday before Easter Sunday. This is a ceremony that involves people fasting and praying. Many church services are held in the afternoon, usually around noon or midday to 3 p.m., to remember the hours Jesus hung on the cross. Many churches also celebrate this day by reenacting the procession of the cross as in the ceremony of the Stations of the Cross, depicting the final hours of Jesus' life. Processions are held in many countries such as India, Italy, Malta, Philippines and Spain.

Often handcrafted kites are flown in Bermuda on Good Friday to symbolize the cross on which Jesus died, as well as his ascension. This custom dates back to the 19th century. In churches in countries like Belgium and Mexico, wearing black on Good Friday is a way to remember Jesus' suffering on the cross. This day is celebrated with great solemnity and a general atmosphere of sadness is felt in many towns and villages. Many Christians in Poland abstain from dry bread and baked potatoes. Decorating eggs is also part of the preparations for Easter in Poland and many other countries.