Millions of Christians across the globe are observing Good Friday today, a solemn day that commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ nearly 2,000 years ago. Churches, cathedrals, and holy sites are holding special services, processions, and moments of silent prayer to reflect on the sacrifice at the heart of the Christian faith.
Good Friday falls during Holy Week, the final week of Lent, and comes just two days before Easter Sunday, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. While Easter is a day of celebration, Good Friday is marked by mourning, contemplation, and gratitude.
According to the New Testament, Jesus was arrested, tried, and sentenced to death by crucifixion under Roman governor Pontius Pilate. He was nailed to a wooden cross and died on a hill called Golgotha, outside Jerusalem’s walls. His death is seen by Christians as the ultimate act of love — dying to save humanity from sin.
Across the world, churches today dim their lights, strip altars bare, and hold services that include readings of the Passion narrative, prayers, and hymns of lament.
