Good Friday: Shared day of solemn reflection across Christian traditions

Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, regarded as the most solemn day in Christianity. Arrested the night before, Christ was brought before Jewish high priests, accused of teachings that challenged Judaic law. Despite the lack of evidence, Roman governor Pontius Pilate sentenced him to death following pressure from the crowd, which chose to free Barabbas instead.

Christ endured severe punishment, was crowned with thorns, and forced to carry his cross to Golgotha, where he was crucified. As he took his final breath, darkness covered the sky, the earth trembled, and an unnatural rupture split the rock upon which his cross stood. His body was laid in a tomb, sealed with a stone and guarded by Roman soldiers.

For Orthodox and Catholic Christians alike, Good Friday is a time of deep reflection on Christ’s sacrifice. Churches hold solemn services, including the reading of The Passion of Christ and symbolic processions of the Shroud, honouring his suffering in preparation for Easter Sunday—the celebration of his resurrection.