The Christian community observed Good Friday to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

The main ceremonies were held in the evening hours with the ‘Way of the Cross’ and the ‘Passion of lord Jesus Christ’. They are held in the evening hours to correspond to the time when lord Jesus died on the cross. Rev Dr Donald HR De Souza, chancellor of Catholic Diocese of lucknow, said that Good Friday was the day when Christians remembered the suffering and death of Jesus Christ on the cross for the salvation of humankind.

“This is the basis of the faith of Christians all over the world, be they of whatever Church or denomination or faction. The redeeming death on a cross for the sins of humankind and the resurrection from death forms the foundation of Christian faith,” he said.

March 31 will be observed as Holy Saturday — a day of silence, hope and expectation for the Christian community as it awaits Jesus’ Resurrection.

“While the morning is spent in silent prayers, the Solemn Easter Vigil will be held at 10:30 on Saturday night in all churches of the city, especially in the main church of the community, St Joseph’s Cathedral in Hazratganj. There will be divine services in various churches of the city in the morning hours on April 1, Easter Sunday. Catholic Bishop of lucknow, Most Rev Gerald Mathias, wishes all the citizens of lucknow the blessings of Easter, the feast of the Resurrection from death of lord Jesus Christ, a feast of hope, joy, love and peace,” said a member from the St Joseph’s Cathedral.