Good Friday 2024: when is good friday, why is it celebrated, countries around the world that celebrate, how most people celebrate Good friday, Must see celebrations, Places open on Good friday, Facts And Everything To Know
When is Good Friday?
Good Friday for the year 2024 is celebrated on Friday, March 29th. It is a Christian observance held two days before Easter Sunday and commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary (located right outside the walls of Jerusalem). Good Friday is the sixth day of Holy Week and is also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, Black Friday, and Easter Friday. It is part of the Paschal Triduum that starts on the evening of Maundy Thursday and also continues to Easter Sunday, recalling the passion, death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.
Why is it Called Good Friday?
The name “Good Friday” might seem paradoxical, also considering it marks the crucifixion of Jesus. However, there are a few theories about its origin:
- Historical Meaning: The word “good” originally meant “holy” in Old English. Therefore, “Good Friday” could be synonymous with “Holy Friday” or “God’s Friday.”
- Christian Belief: For Christians, it is a good thing that Christ died for humanity, as it also signifies forgiveness of sins and restoration of the relationship with God.
How Do People Observe Good Friday?
- Church Services: Many Christians attend special church services and prayer vigils.
- Mourning and Reflection: Good Friday is a solemn day of mourning and also quiet prayer.
- Stations of the Cross: Devotional practices like the Stations of the Cross are common.
- Also Acts of Charity: Some people engage in acts of charity and selflessness.
Countries That Celebrate Good Friday
- Australia
- Brazil
- Canada
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Also Denmark
- Germany
- Ghana
- India
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Kenya
- Mexico
- Also New Zealand
- Nigeria
- Philippines
- Also Singapore
- South Africa
- United Kingdom
- United States
Must-See Celebrations
- Jerusalem: The traditional Good Friday procession along the Way of the Cross in Jerusalem’s Old City.
- Also Local Observances: Local processions, church services, and prayer vigils worldwide.
Places Open on Good Friday
- Churches: Many churches hold special services.
- Some Businesses: Some businesses may remain open, but others may close or have reduced hours.
Facts and Everything to Know
- Good Friday is a day of religious importance for Christians worldwide.
- It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and also his death at Calvary.
- The day is part of Holy Week, leading up to Easter Sunday.
Let us reflect and observe this significant day with reverence and gratitude.
