Orthodox Good Friday: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Orthodox Good Friday (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Orthodox Good Friday is observed on April 14th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Orthodox Good Friday, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you may want to know about Orthodox Good Friday.

📅 What day is Orthodox Good Friday 2024?

In 2024, Orthodox Good Friday is on Friday, April 14th. It is the 2nd Friday in April; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all intriguing details and facts about April 14, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Orthodox Good Friday, based on the Julian calendar, falls on the Friday before Easter, which will be on April 14 this year. Unlike Western religions that follow the Gregorian calendar, Orthodox churches still adhere to the Julian calendar. Consequently, they celebrate Good Friday and Easter at a later date compared to Western churches. This day is also known as Great Friday, Holy Friday, and Holy and Great Friday.

📜 Orthodox Good Friday History

The majority of Orthodox followers reside in Russia, but Orthodox Good Friday is observed worldwide. In the United States, some Orthodox churches hold evening liturgies during Holy Week. Additionally, special afternoon liturgies are conducted for children on Good Friday.

Greek Orthodox Good Friday is known by various names and is considered a day of fasting for Greek Orthodox Christians in the United States. The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America commemorates Christ’s Passion, which refers to the final moments of his life as described in the New Testament. Some churches begin observing it on Thursday night by reading the 12 portions of the Gospels, while others hold an evening service on Good Friday. These readings primarily focus on Jesus Christ’s crucifixion. To replicate funeral rituals, many priests remove images of Jesus Christ from crosses and wrap them in linen. Moreover, in certain Bulgarian churches, when the church bell rings, worshippers are allowed to pass under a table in the middle of the church to light a candle, symbolizing the cleansing of sins.

✅ Orthodox Good Friday Facts

🔖 Kite flying in Bermuda
On Good Friday in Bermuda, residents celebrate the resurrection by flying kites, a unique custom observed in this nation.

🔖 Alcohol ban in Ireland
In Ireland, a predominantly Catholic country, the sale of alcohol of any kind is not allowed on Good Friday.

🔖 Ban on activities in Germany
In Germany, it is against the law to engage in activities such as watching television, organizing a show, performing in a theater, or public dancing on Good Friday.

👍 Why Is Orthodox Good Friday Important

Orthodox Good Friday invites people to spend time alone reflecting on their acts and deeds and to confess if necessary. It can aid in improving mental clarity and purity, as well as spiritual well-being.

Orthodox Good Friday is a solemn day commemorating the events leading up to and following Jesus Christ’s crucifixion. This day is significant to remember his sacrifices for his people.

This day respects the Orthodox Church’s traditions. They use the Julian calendar and have slightly distinct traditions.

🙂 How To Observe Orthodox Good Friday

⚡ Do a good deed

⚡ Observe a fast
Observing a fast on Orthodox Good Friday is a way to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, with the exception of individuals who are unwell.

⚡ Attend a church service
In the Orthodox Good Friday is a day of grief, and you can honor it by giving clothes, making food, or volunteering at a local shelter.

📅 When is Orthodox Good Friday?

Explore all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Religious and other 🔗 Christian holidays.

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