If you're a Christian who believes that Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, died for all our sins, then Good Friday is the most sorrowful, saddest, and yet the holiest day of the year for you.

For Byzantine Christians

Step 1. Attend your local church.

Step 1

  • For Roman Catholics: On Good Friday, there is no Mass, but Communion is usually offered. Pray to the Lord during the Holy Communion. The use of rosaries for prayers is particularly fitting on Good Friday.
  • Besides the Holy Mass, many churches also conduct the Stations of the Cross service, which is worth attending.

Step 2. Some Christian communities (Catholic and others) perform a Passion play.

Step 2

Some Christian communities (Catholic and others) perform a Passion play. You may choose to attend, participate, or even organize one.

  • If you are hosting visitors during the celebration, you might offer them afternoon tea or a "hot cross bun." This is a sweet roll topped with icing, featuring a small piece of dough in the shape of a cross on top. It can be toasted or served plain.

Step 3. Some people fast on Good Friday.

Step 3

Some people do fast on Good Friday. Some completely abstain from food, while others eat very little. If your body is still growing, it's better to consume a bit of food. Read below about the practices of Byzantine Christians.

Step 4. If you did not attend Mass, cease your activities at 3 PM and pray if possible.

Step 4

If you did not attend Mass, stop all activities at 3 PM and pray if possible. It is believed that Jesus died on the cross at this time.

Step 5. Reflect on the death of Jesus throughout the day.

Step 5

Throughout the day, reflect on the death of Jesus. This is the main significance of Good Friday.

For Protestants and Others

Step 1. Byzantine Christians are recommended to fast by abstaining from all meat and dairy products (including eggs).

Step 1

Byzantine Christians are encouraged to fast by avoiding all meat and dairy products (including eggs). Orthodox Christians should familiarize themselves with the rules of their diocese.

Step 2. Attend the morning service with the reading of the Twelve Gospels of the Passion of Christ and the Great Friday service.

Step 2

Part 3

Step 1. There are many different traditions practiced by each Christian denomination.

Step 1

There are many different traditions practiced by each Christian denomination. To learn more about them, it's best to consult a pastor, priest, or church leader.