Christians Worldwide Observe Good Friday

Christians around the world observed Good Friday on April 3, marking the solemn commemoration of Jesus Christ's crucifixion and death, a pivotal event in the faith that underscores themes of sacrifice and redemption.

The day, the Friday before Easter Sunday, draws millions to churches for prayer, fasting, and reflection on the biblical account of Jesus' suffering on the cross in Jerusalem. In the United States, services filled cathedrals and parishes, with traditions varying by denomination. Roman Catholics, for whom Good Friday is the only day without Mass, participated in the Celebration of the Lord's Passion, including readings from the Gospel of John and the veneration of the cross. At the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, Archbishop Jose H. Gomez led a noon liturgy, describing it as "a moment for us to really reflect on the mystery of our redemption, the mystery of God's love for us." The service, which included Communion from hosts consecrated the previous day, was livestreamed for broader access.

Protestant and Evangelical congregations held extended services often starting at 3 p.m., the traditional hour of Jesus' death, focusing on his final words from...