Journey to the Cross: Good Friday Ceremony at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail Back

Journey to the Cross: Good Friday Ceremony at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail

On Good Friday, Christians around the world solemnly remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, an act of profound love and sacrifice. At the Most Holy Redeemer Church in Derebail, the faithful gathered to commemorate this pivotal moment in salvation history. The ceremony, held at 5:30 PM on the church grounds, provided a space for reflection on Christ’s passion and the hope it brings to humanity.

The service was structured into four distinct parts: the Liturgy of the Word, the Solemn Intercessions, the Veneration of the Holy Cross, and the Holy Communion. Each segment invited the faithful to participate deeply in the mysteries of Good Friday.

Rev. Fr. Chetan Lobo, Director of Assisi Press, delivered a poignant homily emphasizing the silent and mystery of Good Friday. He recounted a moving story from 2015 about a nurse battling cancer who chose to sacrifice her life for her unborn child, drawing a parallel to Jesus’ selfless sacrifice. Fr. Chetan Lobo highlighted the significance of the cross in Catholic faith, urging the faithful to embrace their own crosses with courage and trust in God’s plan. He concluded with the powerful reminder about the cross: “Anyone can wear one, but can you bear one?”

During the Solemn Intercessions, prayers were offered for various intentions, uniting the congregation in a spirit of communal supplication. The Veneration of the Holy Cross followed, where devotees individually paid their respects, reflecting on the instrument of salvation. The service continued with the distribution of Holy Communion, allowing the faithful to partake in the sacred mystery.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the statues of the Body of Christ and Our Mother of Sorrows were brought to the altar. The faithful engaged in heartfelt prayers, contemplating the immense sacrifice of Christ and the deep sorrows of Mary. The Derebail Church choir enriched the ceremony with solemn hymns, enhancing the atmosphere of reverence and reflection.

The ceremony concluded peacefully, offering all present an opportunity to deepen their spiritual journey and renew their commitment to live in accordance with Christ’s teachings.

Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, the parish priest, expressed gratitude to all faithful for their respectful involvement in the ceremony. He announced that the Easter Vigil Mass would be held on Saturday at 7:00 PM. On Easter Sunday, Konkani Masses are scheduled for 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM, followed by an English Mass at 11:30 AM.

Report by: Ashish Carvalho
Pictures: Roshan Fernandes