Ranchi, April 19: Hundreds of faithful gathered at Loyola Ground in Ranchi on Good Friday to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, as Archbishop Vincent Aind carried a wooden cross on his shoulders during a solemn Way of the Cross procession.
The worship ceremony was held in two parts, with the liturgy beginning at 5 p.m., followed by the Way of the Cross at 7 p.m., retracing 14 symbolic stations representing Jesus’ trial, suffering, death, and burial.
“This is the only Friday in the year that is called ‘Good’ because on this day, Jesus Christ accepted crucifixion and sacrificed himself to free mankind from sin,” Archbishop Aind said during his address. He added that the Hindi translation, “Punya Shukravar,” reflects the holy significance of Jesus’ sacrifice.
The Archbishop explained that crucifixion was a common punishment in the Roman Empire, typically inflicted on rebel soldiers, agitators, and violent criminals. Jesus’ voluntary acceptance of this brutal form of death, he said, has become a symbol of obedience and divine love in Christian tradition.
“Jesus carrying the cross is a symbol of obedience and love towards God’s will,” Aind noted. “For true disciples, carrying one’s cross signifies selflessness, humility, and dedication to serving others.”
The ceremony was attended by clergy members and parishioners from across the city. Parish priest Father Anand David and others including Moti James Ekka, Amit Ekka, and Richie Roger Lakra assisted in the procession. Several priests, including Father Ajit Khes and Father Neelam Sanjeev Teedu, were also present.
The Good Friday liturgy and procession are part of the Holy Week observances leading up to Easter Sunday, the most significant celebration in the Christian calendar.
