Christians across Mizoram mark Good Friday with solemn rituals, reflection

Good Friday was solemnly observed across Mizoram as thousands of Christians participated in services and rituals to remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The day was marked by sermons, processions, and symbolic acts of faith in churches across denominations.

 

At a Presbyterian church, congregations reflected on the themes “Judgment on Jesus” during morning services and “Life Forsaking God” in the afternoon. These teachings drew large gatherings, continuing a long-standing tradition of intense spiritual reflection on this day.

 

The Baptist Church of Mizoram (BCM) focused its message on the verse from Mark 15:3, “He heals others, but cannot heal himself,” emphasising the suffering and sacrifice of Christ. Worshippers spent the day in prayer and contemplation, engaging deeply with the message.

 

The United Pentecostal Church (UPC) and the Salvation Army in Mizoram held Good Friday services without a central statewide theme, allowing individual congregations to plan their own form of observance.

 

Catholic communities across Aizawl conducted traditional rituals, including fasting, a public Cross procession, Cross worship, and the Holy Mass. The observances aimed to share in the suffering of Jesus and reinforce the significance of his crucifixion. Many parishes also carried out word-of-mouth ministries to spread the message.

 

On the evening before Good Friday, churches held special services. The Holy Eucharist was celebrated, and the Kesil Service was observed with priests symbolically washing the feet of twelve chosen members of the congregation, recalling Jesus' act of humility and service to his disciples.

 

The diverse and solemn observances underlined the deep religious significance of Good Friday in Mizoram, where Christianity plays a central role in the cultural and spiritual life of the people.