Kolkata: As churches across Kolkata prepare for the most solemn period in the Christian liturgical calendar, special prayer services, processions, vigils and gatherings have been lined up through Holy Week, which began on Palm Sunday, March 29, and will culminate in Easter Sunday celebrations on April 5. Good Friday will be observed on April 3 this year, while Maundy Thursday falls on April 2.Several churches across Kolkata have announced special prayers and observances throughout the week, with the devotees using the days leading up to Easter for prayers, reflection and remembrance.At Old Mission Church on RN Mukherjee Road, a church representative said special prayers have been planned throughout the week. “We will be having special prayers on Holy Tuesday starting at 6 pm. On Maundy Thursday there will be washing of the feet and holy communion starting at 6 pm. On Good Friday the service will begin at 12 noon and continue till 3 pm. On Easter there will be a service at 9 am.”Special devotional services have also been scheduled at St Andrew’s Church on Brabourne Road, St John’s Church on Council House Street, Sacred Heart Church on Lenin Sarani and St Mary’s Church on Elgin Road, among other churches, as congregations prepare for Good Friday sermons, Easter vigil services and processions depicting the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus Christ.According to the New Testament, Jesus was crucified on the cross on Good Friday, and came back to life three days later. “Christ’s resurrection is celebrated on Easter Sunday, which also marks the end of Lent, a 40-day period which begins on Ash Wednesday. Easter is the celebration of victory over death, a celebration of new life,” said Father Biswajit Biswas of St Mary’s Church on Elgin Road.Preparations are also afoot at St Andrew’s Church on Brabourne Road. “We have prayers and observances throughout the Holy Week attended by our members,” said Father Swarup Bar of St Andrew’s Church.The city already witnessed large gatherings on Palm Sunday, with churches marking the beginning of Holy Week with prayer services and processions.Several community members will also be participating in the Seven Churches Visitation, wearing black, which signifies mourning and sorrow.For many in Kolkata’s Christian community, the week remains deeply personal. “For us, it is a time to reflect on sacrifice, forgiveness and hope. We will be attending the prayer services at our local church throughout the week. We must learn from the teachings of Christ and aspire to lead such a model and ideal life,” said Janice Chang, a resident of Bowbazar.
