Story by Memory Chamisa
CHRISTIANS in Zimbabwe joined the global community in observing Good Friday, marking one of the most significant days on the Christian calendar with prayer, reflection, and solemn traditions.
Part of the broader Easter period, the day commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and embodies themes of sacrifice, redemption and hope.
Across the country, churches held services characterised by symbolic acts such as the covering of the Cross, while various denominations took to the streets carrying crosses in remembrance of Christ’s journey to Calvary.
“For me, this is a moment of reflection and seeking forgiveness for my actions, and knowing that Jesus died for me to be able to live a righteous life is something I don’t take lightly. Today we marched and carried the cross just like Jesus did, and now we await His resurrection on Sunday,” a Christian said.
“We carried the cross, as Jesus did back in His day when he was here on earth. As we carried the cross, we meditated on the pain He went through the beatings, torture and finally death at Golgotha,” a Catholic said.
“Good Friday is the most important day that we as the church commemorate in appreciating the death of Jesus and His victory over death when He resurrected on the third day. His death means all our transgressions have been put on the cross, and we are renewed when He rises from the grave, conquering death,” another Christian said.
Clergy emphasised the spiritual significance of the day, describing it as a time for reflection, repentance, and renewal.
“Today we celebrate the death of Jesus as His death means we have been forgiven our sins and given a new lease on life to live it as the Bible tells us to do,” Minister of Religion Reverend Evans Mataka said.
Father Kudakwashe Mhepo said Good Friday marks the culmination of the Lenten season and sets the stage for the celebration of resurrection.
“Good Friday marks the culmination of Lent and sets the stage for Easter Sunday’s celebration of resurrection and hope. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary, a moment central to Christian belief, seen as the ultimate act of love, sacrifice, and redemption,” he said.
Vice-President General (retired) Constantino Chiwenga , who joined congregants in carrying the cross, highlighted the importance of the day for believers.
“As a Catholic, this day on the Christian calendar has a lot of meaning for believers. Today, we take time to think of our transgressions and thoughts as we prepare for the death of our Lord Jesus Christ. His death signals an end to our sins, doubts, pain and suffering, and His resurrection now means we have been forgiven and given another chance to repent and live righteously,” he said.
Christians traditionally observe Good Friday through fasting, prayer, and reflection, as they await Easter Sunday, which symbolises resurrection, forgiveness, and renewed hope.
