Fasting, solemnity mark Good Friday across state

Chennai

Prayers, fasting, solemn ceremonies and enactment of passion plays marked the observance of Good Friday, which symbolises the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, in Tamil Nadu on Friday. Christians of all denominations spent the day offering silent prayers and fasting and solemn services were conducted in churches devoid of the usual decorations, with bare altars. Devout Christians observed fasting and abstinence during the 40-day Lent, the period which precedes Easter, the festival celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. Many churches put up “passion plays” depicting the crucifixion of Jesus. Early morning mass was held in all the churches across the State to mark the occasion. In Chennai, early morning mass was held at the famous Santhome Basilica and other churches. A procession was taken out, symbolising the sufferings of Jesus Christ bearing the cross by Christians in several parts of the state. Members of the Christian community observed the day in the Union Territory of Puducherry as well. A procession symbolic of Jesus’ journey from the palace of Pilate to Calvary where he was crucified was held. Arch Bishop of Puducherry and Cuddalore Diocese Dr Anthony Anandarayar took part in the procession.