Solemn Beginning to Good Friday: Prayers of the Church and Children’s Way of the Cross Back

Solemn Beginning to Good Friday: Prayers of the Church and Children’s Way of the Cross

Good Friday is one of the most important and solemn days in the Christian calendar. At Derebail Parish this blessed day began with the faithful gathering in the church at 8 AM for the Prayers of the Church. 

The service was led by the Parish priest Rev. Fr Joseph Martis, beginning with Psalm 51 – which emphasizes on how God didn’t hold back his Son for the redemption of his people. Remembering the times of Prophet Habakkuk who brought hope in troubled times a psalm was sung, followed by Psalm 147 on how wonderful it is to praise and honour the Cross & our Lord.

Scripture readings included passages from the Book of Isaiah, reminding us of how Jesus' coming to bring us salvation and redeem us from our sins was foretold long before his birth. A reading from the letter of St Paul to the Philippians  reflected Christ's humility, obedient until the point of his death on the Cross.

The prayers of the faithful were read centered around the intentions of the Church.

The devotion of the day increased with the Way of the Cross. The year 2026, as declared by Mangalore Diocese, is the "Year of Children." Hence, for the first time in the history of the parish, the entire Way of the Cross-from the singing and carrying of the Cross to the reflections at each station—was led entirely by children. The reflections were thoughtfully curated, placing children at the centre of the reflections.

  
Through their participation, the children not only led the congregation in prayer but they also assured their prayers for their parents, the parishioners and humbly called on the people gathered to pray for them during the devotion.

It was indeed a spiritually enriching and blessed start to the most solemn day of Catholic faith.

Report by: Kevin Suares
Pictures: Roshan Fernandes 

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