Mangaluru: Good Friday was observed with deep devotion at St Rita Church, Panja, where Rev Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop, Diocese of Mangalore, led the solemn evening liturgy attended by hundreds of parishioners.The service commemorating the Passion and death of Jesus Christ included the Prostration, the Reading of the Passion according to the Gospel of St John, the general intercessions, the Adoration of the Holy Cross, and the Rite of Holy Communion. Rev Fr Melwyn John Dsouza, parish priest of St Rita Church, assisted in the liturgy.Delivering his reflection on the Passion of Christ, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha spoke on the theme, ‘The Cross: A Sign of God’s Love and Hope.’ He described the Cross as a powerful sign of God’s love and hope for humanity, saying the sacrifice of Jesus reveals the depth of God’s love and his willingness to suffer for the salvation of humankind.“When we face trials and tribulations, we must remember that the Lord is right beside us, ready to lift us up,” the bishop said. “The Cross is not a sign of defeat, but a beacon of new hope. Even in the moments of Christ’s death, we see the immense depth of the Father’s love and the Son’s total surrender.”He urged the faithful to reflect on their own lives and consider what sacrifices they are willing to make for Christ. He also encouraged them not to give in to despair during hardships, saying that looking upon the crucified Jesus gives believers the strength to endure and overcome suffering.Earlier in the day, the parish communities across the diocese prayerfully observed the Way of the Cross, preparing the faithful for the evening’s solemn celebration.Across the Diocese of Mangalore, Good Friday, regarded as the most sombre day in the Christian calendar, was marked by large participation in the Way of the Cross. This year’s observances held special significance as the diocese is celebrating the ‘Year of Children,’ placing the younger generation at the centre of the Lenten and Paschal ceremonies.As part of the observance, several parishes organised a special Children’s Way of the Cross. In a moving expression of faith, children took turns carrying the heavy wooden cross during the 14 stations. The sessions were designed to help children reflect on the Passion of Christ through age-appropriate prayers, hymns and meditations. In many parishes, the devotions were held outdoors in church premises, drawing large gatherings of faithful as children led the community in prayer.
