March 29, 2013 (Mankato, MN): What is “good” about Good Friday?
Good Friday is the day when Christians commemorate the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. The Easter date depends on the ecclesiastical approximation of the March equinox. This is an important event in Christianity, as it represents the sacrifices and suffering in Jesus’ life. The crucifixion was the culmination of a number of events in Holy Week, including: the triumphal return of Jesus to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday; the washing of the disciples’ feet by Jesus; and the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday.
Activities: Some Christians may attend special church services or prayer vigils. Good Friday is a day of mourning and quiet prayer for many Christians. The candles may be slowly extinguished and statues, paintings and crosses may be draped in black, purple or gray cloth. Some treat Good Friday as a day of fasting, while others observe a partial fast involving the exclusion of meat.
Public life: Good Friday is another day at work for many Americans, as it is not a national holiday. Some people may choose to take a day off work and have a long “Spring Break” weekend. In some states, employees are given a day off on Good Friday. Regular public services continue according the schedule in most areas. Many financial markets and some businesses are closed on Good Friday.
Symbols: The cross, which represents the way Jesus died, is an important symbol seen on Good Friday. Other symbols of Good Friday include black cloth used to cover the cross, paintings and statues in churches and some homes to signify mourning.