Good Friday is a Christian holy day which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and His death at Calvary. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum on the Friday before Easter Sunday, and it may coincide with the Jewish observance of Passover.
After the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, candlesticks and altar cloths, cross or crosses are removed from the altar. The holy water fonts are also emptied in preparation of the blessing of the water at the Easter Vigil. Bells are not rung on Good Friday or Holy Saturday until the Easter Vigil.
In the Catholic Church, Good Friday is a day of fasting. The only other day of fasting prescribed by the Church is Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Lenten season.
The Mass is not celebrated on Good Friday. The only sacraments celebrated during the Paschal Triduum are Baptism (only for those in danger of death), Penance and Reconciliation, and the Anointing of the Sick. While there is no Mass, Holy Communion may be distributed during the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion and brought to the sick.
The Veneration of the Cross highlights the Good Friday liturgy. The cross is solemnly unveiled and venerated by the people. Solemn hymns are sung and chanted throughout the veneration period.
On Good Friday, the Stations of the Cross and the Seven Last Words are also prayed and reflected upon by the faithful. This year, the Holy Name of Jesus Chinese Catholic Mission will hold the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday, March 29 at 7:00 pm. The Stations of the Cross and the Seven Last Words will be held at 6:00 pm. All are invited!