Good Friday

Good Friday Holiday - April 6 is Good Friday. Christians across the world observe this day as a remembrance of the pain and suffering Jesus Christ went through for the sake of mankind. There are several explanations as to why such a day is called "good". The simplest explanation is: In Christ's death, God had the last word. His people were redeemed by the death of Jesus Christ.

Good Friday service in the Roman Catholic Church has three separate parts. It includes prayers and readings, the veneration of the cross which is a Latin rite that involves kissing the foot of the crucifix and finally, Holy Communion - receiving the body of Jesus in the form of bread.

This is often preceded by what is known as the "Three Hours Service". It is held from noon to 3 pm, and involves the recitation of hymns, prayers and sermons focused on Jesus' last words on the Cross. "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do".

Good Friday and the following Holy Saturday are the only days of the year when Mass is not conducted in Roman Catholic churches. Catholics mark the day by attending church and reliving the 14 Stations of the Cross - the events that took place leading up to, and including, Christ's crucifixion, death and entombment.

On this day, the altar in the Catholic Church has no decorations and the candle, which always burns to mark God's presence, remains unlit. This is the only day when God is considered not present in church. This is the day one wishes would end quickly for it is a day of mourning and grief. Christians all over the world spend the day concentrating and reflecting upon His suffering and his unconditional love for mankind.

Good Friday Date 2013: 29 March.