Good Friday 2024: Know date, history and significance of the Christian holiday

Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, or Black Friday.

Observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum, Good Friday is a day of sorrow, penance, and fasting.

The Paschal Triduum is the period of three days that begins with Maundy Thursday (last Supper of Jesus Christ), reaches its high point in the Easter Vigil, and closes with evening prayer on Easter Sunday.

Members of many Christian denominations, including the Catholic, and the Eastern Orthodox, observe Good Friday with fasting and church services. 

The "Service of the Great Three Hours’ Agony" is held from noon until 3 pm, corresponding to the time duration that the Bible records as darkness covering the land during Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross.

Good Friday 2024: Date

Historically, Good Friday falls between March 20 and April 23. This year, Good Friday will be observed on March 29 (Friday).

History of Good Friday

On Good Friday, Jesus Christ was crucified by Roman soldiers on charges of blasphemy from the religious leaders. According to the biblical record, his death was a sacrifice meant to absorb sins and allow the followers to reenter relationship with God, his Father.

Why is crucifixion of Jesus Christ called ‘Good Friday’?

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ, for Christians, represents the ultimate sacrifice made for the forgiveness of the sins of humanity.

His death is believed to have provided a way for believers to have eternal life, opening the way for salvation and reconciliation between God and humanity.

Things to do on Good Friday:

• Wake up early on Good Friday and prepare for the day of sacrifice.
• It is suggested to wear black, symbolizing mourning.
• As it is a day of mourning, try to limit consumption of television, phones, and social media.
• As required by the Church, observe obligatory day of fasting and abstinence.
• Attend prayer service for Good Friday.
• At the 'Great Three Hours’ Agony', noon to 3:00 pm, observe silence.
• Venerate the holy cross in your home or the Church