Good Friday reminds us that even in the darkest hour, God’s love shines through the pain and sacrifice of the Cross. It is a love that redeems, restores and renews.
Good Friday, a day of profound sorrow and reflection, commemorates the Passion, Crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. It remains one of the most solemn observances in the Christian liturgical calendar, reminding the faithful of Christ’s immense love and sacrifice for humanity.
At St Vincent Ferrer Church in Valencia, the Good Friday service was held with great devotion on April 3, 2026, beginning at 6:00 pm. The entire parish community gathered in reverence to meditate on the suffering and death of Jesus, who bore the sins of the world upon the Cross.
The liturgy was prayerfully led by Assistant Parish Priest Fr Pradeep Rodrigues. He was joined by Parish Priest Fr Roque DSa as co-celebrant.
The Good Friday service was divided into three sacred parts:
Liturgy of the Word – The congregation listened attentively to readings from the Holy Scriptures, including the Passion of Christ according to the Gospel of St John. The Passion was movingly proclaimed by Fr Pradeep along with Simon, Roshan and the choir backing up, bringing the story of Christ’s suffering to life.
Veneration of the Cross – A deeply symbolic moment followed as Fr Roque brought the Crucifix to the altar. Fr Pradeep solemnly unveiled the Cross in three stages, each unveiling accompanied by the faithful’s acclamation: “Behold the wood of the Cross, on which hung the salvation of the world.” Parishioners then approached the Crucifix with reverence, expressing their devotion by kissing the Cross.
Holy Communion – The service concluded with the distribution of the Holy Eucharist, received in silence and reflection, as no Mass is celebrated on Good Friday.
The liturgy ended with the Procession of the Body of Christ, where a symbolic representation of Jesus’ body was carried in procession. The faithful joined in solemn silence, reflecting on the sorrow of the day and the promise of resurrection.
The Good Friday observance at Valencia served as a powerful reminder of the price of redemption and the boundless mercy of God.
Pics by Nikhil Studio
