Special prayers offered in Udupi

Udupi: Churches in Udupi observed Good Friday by offering special prayers. The day began with the Way of the Cross in the morning and was followed by prayers in the afternoon. For Christians, Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary, which took place thousands of years ago. The Easter Triduum started on Thursday, and ends with Easter celebrations.In Udupi, Rev Gerald Isaac Lobo, apostolic administrator of Udupi diocese, participated in the religious ceremony at the Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur. Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, rector of the cathedral, Fr Pradeep Cardoza, assistant parish priest, Fr Reginald Pinto, director SAMPADA, and Fr Vincent Machado of Pilar Fathers were present.In his Good Friday homily, Bishop Gerald said Good Friday is a holy day to meditate on the significance of Christ's sacrifice, which demonstrates his infinite love for humankind. He reflected on the mystery of the Cross and the redeeming love of Christ.The commemoration of the Passion and Death of Jesus Christ was observed with deep devotion and reverence. The liturgy included the Liturgy of the Word, the Veneration of the Holy Cross and Holy Communion, marking the second day of the Sacred Paschal Triduum.Earlier in the day, Way of the Cross services were conducted across all parishes in the Diocese of Udupi. Devotees of all ages walked in prayerful silence, meditating on the Stations of the Cross, which depict Jesus' final journey to Calvary. In many parishes, the stations were held outdoors, fostering an atmosphere of reflection and devotion.As part of the Church's tradition, the faithful across the diocese observed the day with fasting and abstinence, spending the evening in quiet prayer, scripture reading and adoration, in preparation for the joyous celebration of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday.