Good Friday, also called Holy Friday, is the most important Catholic holiday celebrated worldwide. It commemorates Jesus Christ's crucifixion and death on the cross. Good Friday is part of Holy Week, falling between Maundy Thursday and Holy Saturday, right before Easter Sunday.
Why Is It Called Good Friday And When Is It Celebrated?
Good Friday is the solemn day commemorating Jesus Christ's crucifixion. Theories abound about the origins of this seemingly paradoxical name. It is believed that “good” Friday was derived from the earlier name “God’s Friday.” Some contend that Christ’s death represented the ultimate sacrifice to save humanity from sin, rendering the day “good” in that sense. And others argue that the day epitomises Christ’s unwavering obedience to God’s plan, even unto death.
Whatever the theory, Good Friday retains its vital significance among Christians worldwide. This poignant holy day arrives each year on the Friday before Easter, the date of Christ’s resurrection. It falls during Holy Week, on the sixth day after Palm Sunday. Based on the lunar calendar followed by the church, Good Friday will occur this year on April 15th, with Easter Sunday to follow on April 17th. On this reflective Friday, Christians commemorate Jesus’ crucifixion and death on the cross through solemn rites and rituals.
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Why Fish Is The Main Food For Good Friday?
Fish is considered the only alternative meat product that can be eaten as it lives in water, and is considered different from land animals like goats, cows, buffalo, etc., which were otherwise consumed. Thus, fish is consumed on Good Friday by many believers. Some Christians believe that eating fish on Good Friday symbolises the day of Jesus' crucifixion. During Lent, Christians and Catholics abstain from eating the meat of a warm-blooded animal in reflection to Christ’s sacrifice to mankind.
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Many of Jesus’s disciples were fishermen themselves who believed that fish was a fitting substitute for meat on Good Friday. It is believed that fish was used as a secret sign by early Christians to identify themselves and mark designated places for secret meetings, known as ichthus. There's also the practical side: in ancient times, meat was a luxury, while fish was an affordable staple. Thus, the custom caught on, and fish Fridays remain a Lent tradition till today.
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At Easter, however, the most popular breakfast worldwide is the humble hot cross bun. Served alongside scrambled eggs, shrimp scampi, chocolate eggs, lobster rolls, grilled fish tacos and more, it's a simple yet tasty tradition. Seafood is especially popular for Easter meals. An interesting Easter fact: churches often serve a bitter vinegar drink made from leaves after service. It's an acquired taste!