2 Apr :Christians on Friday thronged churches to hold special prayers and observed fasts as a way of renunciation of earthly comforts to commemorate Good Friday, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Members of Catholic Church held processions at various places with devotees carrying wooden crosses to symbolise the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus some 2000 years ago.
In the Christian-dominated Mizoram, the largest Presbyterian Church organised prayers and worship services as priests performed masses in all local branches of the church.
Massive processions were taken out by the faithful in Aizawl and certain other towns, braving inclement weather, to signify sufferings of the Christ to save mankind.
Many devotees in the national capital observed fast which they will continue till Sunday when the community celebrates Easter – marking the resurrection of Christ. Special masses were held by the Church of North India.
In Kerala, Christians marked the occasion with day-long prayers, shunning all comforts to commemorate the sufferings and Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Devotees congregated in large numbers in churches where senior prelates led special prayers to mark the day.
Hundreds of Pilgrims carrying heavy wooden crosses trekked to the famous Malayattoor St Thomas Church located atop a hillock in Ernakulam district which is believed to have been sanctified by the visit of Apsotle St Thomas, who preached Christ’s message in India.
The Good Friday also marked the most important day of the season of Lent, when the faithful lead a frugal life shunning all luxury and physical comforts to gain spiritual strength.
In Meghalaya, special sermons on salvation and partaking in the ‘Lord’s Last Supper’ were held on the occasion.
An air of solemnity prevailed as Arch Bishop of Shillong, Most Rev Dominic Jala led believers in the special Good Friday service with focus on the Lord’s message to mankind.
With candles in their hands, hundreds of devout Christians offered prayers at the feet of the Holy Cross at the The Cathedral Church of Mary Help of Christians, one of the most prominent landmarks in the capital city.