Thousands celebrate Good Friday in Bangalore

Christians across Bangalore congregated at their respective churches to celebrate Good Friday. St Mary’s Basilica in Shivajinagar, the oldest church in Bangalore, saw people of all age groups take part in the service.

Anne, a 38-year-old beautician who was waiting to attend the 3 o’clock mass, said, “On Good Friday, it is must for us to come to church and attend the ‘Stations of the Cross’. The lent (fast) that people observe for 40 days, without eating non-vegetarian food, ends with Good Friday,” she said.

“I have prepared myself fully to take part in the Good Friday celebrations. I had observed fast on Fridays for the last 40 days. I mainly visit this church to see St Mary’s shrine. The church environment is miraculous and peaceful,” said Sister Achala of Congregation of Sisters of St Teresa.

The Infant Jesus church in Viveknagar was crowded with worshippers. Fr Balaraj said, “Good Friday marks the commemoration of the death of Jesus Christ. Today, we venerate or adore the cross, which was once considered the symbol of shame. From morning, the church has been flooding with people. Throughout the day, we have masses held in different languages.”
Preparations for Easter in the city are also in full swing as people are busy buying Easter eggs and baking cakes.