Good Friday 2025: History and Meaning
Good Friday in 2025 will be on April 18. This is a very important and serious day for Christians all over the world. It remembers the day when Jesus Christ was crucified (put to death on a cross) at a place called Calvary.
It is observed just two days before Easter Sunday (April 20), which celebrates Jesus rising from the dead. Good Friday is a day to think deeply about Jesus’s sacrifice, his love for all people, and the pain he went through to save others from sin.
What Happened on Good Friday
The Bible says that Jesus was betrayed by one of his close followers, Judas Iscariot, who gave him to the authorities for 30 silver coins. Jesus was then arrested and brought to Pontius Pilate, a Roman ruler.
Although Pilate found no fault in Jesus, the crowd demanded punishment, and Jesus was sentenced to die on a cross.
He was mocked, beaten, and made to carry a heavy wooden cross through the streets of Jerusalem. Finally, Jesus was nailed to the cross at a place called Golgotha, along with two criminals. He died around 3 PM. Christians believe this was a turning point in history, because Jesus gave his life to save all people from their sins.
Why Is It Called “Good” Friday?
Even though this day remembers something very sad, it is still called “Good” Friday. Some believe the word “Good” came from “God’s Friday”, while others say it is “good” because it led to something great—salvation and forgiveness for everyone. Christians believe Jesus’s death was not the end, but part of a bigger plan to bring hope and life.
What do people do on Good Friday?
On Good Friday, Christians take part in special church services that include Bible readings, songs, and prayers. Many people also follow a tradition called the Stations of the Cross, where they think about the last steps Jesus took before dying. Some choose to fast (eat very little) and avoid meat to show respect. Between 12 PM and 3 PM, the time when Jesus was on the cross, many people stay quiet and reflect.
In some places, people even take part in processions where they walk through the streets remembering Jesus’s final journey.
Good Friday is a day of sorrow, but also a day of faith, hope, and love. It reminds Christians of what Jesus did for them and prepares their hearts for the joy of Easter Sunday.