Tura, April 18: All roads in Garo Hills led to church as Christians across the region marked Good Friday with deep reverence and spiritual reflection to commemorate the crucifixion and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Churches across towns and villages drew crowds of faithful devotees, particularly the Sacred Heart Shrine of the Catholic Church and the Tura Baptist Church, where devotees partook in solemn services that included readings from the Passion of Christ, veneration of the cross and prayers for peace and salvation.
Many Catholic faithful observed Good Friday with fasting and took part in the Way of the Cross (14 stations of the Cross) that traces back the last journey of Christ before his crucifixion.
At the Sacred Heart Shrine in Tura, Auxiliary Bishop of Tura C J Jose emphasized the significance of Good Friday and urged the faithful to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and its message of love and forgiveness.
“Good Friday is a time to pause and contemplate the profound act of redemption that shapes our faith. It reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice made for humanity’s redemption. It is a time for deep spiritual reflection and renewal of faith,” said Bishop Jose.
A special prayer was also offered for world peace, for an end to the war in Ukraine and the suffering of the people in Palestine, particularly in Gaza, where thousands of innocent civilians have died from the ongoing conflict.
Similar Good Friday observances were reported from Ampati, Resubelpara, Baghmara, Williamnagar, Tikrikilla, Garobadha, and distant Siju in South Garo Hills and Mangsang of East Garo Hills, bordering West Khasi Hills district, where the faithful took part in a procession, from the village road to the parish church, reenacting the Stations of the Cross.
“This day reminds us of the suffering Jesus endured for humanity. It’s a moment to renew our commitment to compassion and unity,” reminded Mangsang parish priest Father Bromith.
On Saturday night, Catholics will hold an Easter Vigil and light a special candle in preparation to celebrate the resurrection of Christ, followed by a special Easter Sunday mass that concludes the Lent Season of penance and sacrifice.
The Tura Baptist Church will hold a special Sunrise Service to celebrate Easter Sunday and Christ’ resurrection.
