Good Friday
Good Friday is a Christian holiday that observes the anniversary of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Christians believe that Christ was the Son of God who came to earth to die and take away people's sins. The Bible says that he arose from the dead three days later, on Easter Sunday, and ascended to heaven. This is pretty much the fundamental story of Christianity. Christians started observing Good Friday in the fourth century AD.
What's So Good About It?
Since Good Friday is a holiday marking the execution of the Christian messiah, it seems a little odd to call it "Good." Experts believe either that the holiday was once called God Friday, which later mistakenly became known as Good Friday, or that it is considered good because Christ's sacrifice allows believers to go to heaven and live eternally. Not such a great thing for him, but good news for Christians! In other countries it is know as Long Friday, Silent Friday or Holy Friday.
How to Observe It
Christians observe Good Friday by attending special church services. Some services last three hours, which is the amount of time Jesus spent on the cross. Some people go to solemn parades (no clowns or balloons here) or eat special meals with family.
Did U Know?
- The controversial Mel Gibson flick, The Passion of Christ, revolves around the events that took place on the original Good Friday.
- Hot cross buns are traditionally eaten on Good Friday.
- It's an old superstition that if a baby is born on Good Friday and baptized on Easter Sunday they will have the gift of healing.
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