Catholics attend Good Friday service in droves

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HOLY DAY: Christians, young and old alike, gather outside St Joseph’s Cathedral near the Miri City Council building to observe Good Friday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The practice is part of the ‘Easter Triduum’, which begins with the Holy Thursday and concludes with Easter Sunday. — Photo by Cecilia Sman

HOLY DAY: Christians, young and old alike, gather outside St Joseph’s Cathedral near the Miri City Council building to observe Good Friday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The practice is part of the ‘Easter Triduum’, which begins with the Holy Thursday and concludes with Easter Sunday. — Photo by Cecilia Sman

MIRI: Hundreds of Catholics in and around this city braved the scourging sun yesterday afternoon to attend Good Friday service at St Joseph’s Cathedral, to commemorate the death of Lord Jesus Christ on the Cross.

Many had to sit or stand on the cathedral compound throughout the almost two-hour service, which commenced at 5pm and was presided over by Bishop Richard Ng.

The ‘Veneration of the Cross’ – in which members of the congregation came and kissed the feet of Jesus on the crucifix, as a sign of acceptance of His Love – was part of the service.

In his homily, Bishop Ng urged Catholics to remain true to their faith for Jesus, who was crucified and died on the cross for the sake of mankind.

“By His Death on the Cross, Jesus won for us freedom. God does not give us immunity to sufferings, but in sufferings, He gave us hope, purpose in life and perseverance.

“Thus, as we venerate the cross, we should thank God for His Love for us.

“God has a purpose for everything. Christians’ ultimate goal is eternal life.”

Good Friday is part of Easter Triduum, which begins with Holy Thursday and ends with Easter Sunday.

Good Friday, in the mystery of Christ’s death on the cross, underlines the divine love that embraces all mankind and summons everyone to love one another.

On Holy Thursday, Jesus gives himself to mankind as food, and the washing of the feet of the ‘Disciples’ teaches mankind to serve others, while Easter Sunday commemorates the ‘Resurrection of Jesus’.

Bishop Ng addresses the congregation on Good Friday. —Photos by Cecilia Sman

Bishop Ng addresses the congregation on Good Friday. —Photos by Cecilia Sman

The Veneration of the cross.

The Veneration of the cross.

Bishop Ng washes the feet of the  12 parishioners, symbolising what Jesus did for the 12 Disciples.

Bishop Ng washes the feet of the 12 parishioners, symbolising what Jesus did for the 12 Disciples.