BELAGAVI
Prayer services, fasting and penance accompanied by special enactments based on the death of Jesus Christ on the Cross marked the day-long observation of Good Friday in Belagavi city.
Christians belonging to different denominations commenced their day with the 'Way of the Cross’, reminiscing the sufferings of Jesus Christ before he was crucified.
A live 'Way of the Cross' was enacted by youth of Immaculate Conception Church at Belagavi, which is also known as Goa Church, and by the youth of Our Lady of Miracles Church, Khanapur, the oldest church in the upper ghat region.
In his message, Bishop of Belgaum Peter Machado stated that Good Friday, for Christians all over the world, is good because it reminds us of God's greatest kindness to us.
“Jesus took upon Himself our sins and died for us. He forgave our sins and in the process, even forgave those who crucified Him on the Cross,” Bishop Machado said.
Speaking further he said that since Pope Francis has declared this year as ‘Year of Mercy’, we look upon Jesus on the Cross as a symbol of mercy and compassion. “All that Jesus asks us is to be forgiving, merciful and compassionate to others," said Bishop Machado.
Eucharistic services combined with the ‘Passion of Christ’ were held at Fatima Cathedral, St Anthony’s Church and Immaculate Conception Church, Camp, St John the Baptist Church, Ganeshpur and other churches. Prayer services were also held in St Mary’s Church, Methodist Church and other churches in the city where Christians offered prayers for the world peace and harmony.
In his homily, Msgr Mascarenhas urged people to refrain themselves from sins and forgive those who have sinned against them.
“Jesus loved the world so much that he went on to shed his blood to save us from sin. Hence each one of should not forget His sacrifice and lead a tranquil and chaste life,” he ascertained.
