Good Friday

Good Friday History

Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a time of reflection and solemnity, viewed as a crucial event in Christian faith which signifies the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus for mankind's redemption. Across many Christian denominations around the world, this day is marked by fasting and prayer, religious processions, and services significant to the remembrance of Christ's passion and death.

The history of Good Friday observance in Australia dates back to its earliest days as a British colony, reflecting the predominantly Anglican religious beliefs of the settlers. Since then, this day has gained multicultural significance, being observed by various Christian denominations including Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestant communities. The Australian public, regardless of individual faith or denomination, recognize Good Friday as a public holiday under the national public holidays act, thereby underlining its relevance in the societal fabric.

In Australia, Good Friday is characterized by solemn church services, quiet contemplation, and acts of charity. Many attend mass or service in the early afternoon, reflecting the time believed that Jesus was nailed to the cross. Specific to Australia, the Sydney-based 'Way of the Cross' walk is a prominent event, drawing a large number of participants. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) typically broadcasts the Good Friday service from St Mary's Cathedral in Sydney nationally. Good Friday occurs on the Friday before Easter Sunday, which is scheduled to coincide with the paschal full moon as per the lunar calendar, typically falling between March 20th and April 23rd.

Facts about Good Friday

• In the Orthodox tradition, the day is called Holy and Great Friday. In typical Orthodox services, a cross is removed from the church sanctuary and the congregation observes a service that focuses on Christ's burial in the tomb.
• A service called Tenebrae is often held on Good Friday. It focuses on reading the scriptures that describe Jesus' arrest, trial, beating, and crucifixion. In the Roman Catholic Church, Tenebrae may be celebrated on Holy Thursday. Another variation, called Tre Ore, or three hours, is a service that runs typically from noon to 3 p.m., believed to be the time of Jesus' death. It focuses on the last seven phrases that Christ said before his death based on several different gospels. Each phrase is accompanied by a scripture reading, a hymn, and sometimes a short sermon.
• The Way, or Stations, of the Cross is another way that Christians observe Good Friday. It is primarily a Roman Catholic tradition, but some Protestant churches practice it as well. Depictions of the last 12 acts of Jesus' life are placed in the church or are sometimes permanently stationed outside on the church grounds. Worshipers walk from one station to the next in prayer and contemplation.
• Another tradition, followed especially by the Anglican and Catholic churches, is the 'Three Hours' Service,' which involves reading the seven final sayings of Jesus on the Cross, with hymns, prayers, meditations, and a pause of a few minutes for silent reflection after each saying.
• In Bendigo, Victoria, Australia, a notable event held on Good Friday is the living depiction of the "Stations of the Cross" at the Sacred Heart Cathedral. It draws many locals and tourists alike.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Good Friday

Top things to do in Australia for Good Friday

• One tradition on Good Friday is to make and eat hot cross buns. The bread, which is slightly sweet, has a cross on the top that represents the crucifixion. It is thought to be an English tradition that dates back 500 years.
• Attend The Royal Easter Show in Sydney: This event is one of the largest annual events in Australia, occurring over two weeks around Easter. It features agricultural exhibitions, live entertainment, carnival rides, and much more.
• Read a book to learn more about Good Friday in Australia:
  Australian Christian Life from 1788: An Introduction and an Anthology - by I. Breward: This book gives insight about the influence Christianity, and consequently Good Friday, have had on Australian society.