Pics: Stanly Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Apr 3: Churches across the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada observed Good Friday with deep devotion and spiritual reflection on April 3, as the Christian community commemorated the passion and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Large numbers of the faithful gathered in their respective parishes from early morning to participate in the traditional Way of the Cross. At Milagres Church, Rosario Cathedral, and various other parishes in the city, worshippers retraced the final journey of Jesus to Calvary, meditatively praying at the 14 stations.

Our Lady of Miracles Church, Milagres

The atmosphere remained sombre as devotees, many dressed in black or muted colours, engaged in introspection and penance. The Stations of the Cross served as a poignant reminder of Christ's sacrifice, with clergy at various churches delivering reflections on the themes of unconditional love, forgiveness, and the call to lead a life of service to others.

In many parishes, the Way of the Cross was conducted outdoors, with the congregation following the wooden cross through the church premises or surrounding streets, symbolising the journey to Golgotha.

The day’s primary liturgical services are scheduled to commence at 4 pm in most churches. The evening liturgy, which is the most solemn of the year, includes the reading of the Passion of Christ according to the Gospel of John, the solemn intercessory prayers for the world and the church, the unveiling and veneration of the Holy Cross, and the distribution of Holy Communion.

As the community observes this day of fasting and abstinence, the solemnity of Good Friday sets the stage for the joy of the Resurrection to be celebrated on Easter Sunday.