At the Motherhouse of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, attendees gathered for special services to mark the occasion.

In Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, thousands participated in the traditional ‘Way of the Cross’ procession, a ritual retracing Christ’s path to Calvary. The Way of the Cross, also known as the Stations of the Cross (Via Crucis or Via Dolorosa), is a Catholic devotion comprising 14 steps that honour the passion and death of Jesus Christ. Observed on Fridays during Lent, it involves reflection on key moments from Christ’s condemnation to His burial, enabling believers to spiritually accompany Him on His journey to Calvary.

Participants carried crosses and chanted hymns, maintaining a reflective and respectful tone throughout the procession. In Delhi, prayers were held at Sacred Heart Cathedral Church in Gol Dak Khana and St Thomas Church, RK Puram Sector 2, where devotees observed the day with reverence.

Good Friday holds significant importance for Christians worldwide, including those in India, as the solemn day before Easter. The period begins with Palm Sunday and concludes with Easter Sunday.

The story of Good Friday recounts the day when Jesus was crucified by the Romans. Judas, a disciple of Jesus, betrayed him, leading to his capture. Pontius Pilate, Governor of the Roman province of Judea, ordered Jesus’ execution. Jesus was made to carry his cross through Jerusalem to Calvary, the site of crucifixion.

Good Friday is followed by Easter, celebrating Jesus’ resurrection on the third day after His crucifixion.