GOOD FRIDAY

Wishing you a peaceful Good Friday

Good Friday is a solemn day when Christians around the world remember Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and death. Finding the right words to mark such a weighty observance can be difficult—“Happy Good Friday” never feels quite right, and even “Blessed Good Friday” seems to miss the gravity of the moment. As I grow older and realize that my days on earth are numbered, I’m ever more aware of how undeserved God’s grace has been in my life—and how deeply I need it.

I’d like to share an experience that brought this home for me. On November 5, 2024, I was touring Rome as a casual visitor, snapping photos and ticking off famous landmarks. Yet something drew me again and again into its churches and basilicas. When I entered San Marcello al Corso and stood before the Crucifix of San Marcello—widely regarded as the most realistic depiction of Christ’s suffering—I felt a sudden, crushing weight of guilt.
I studied every detail: the nails driven through his hands, the crown of thorns pressing into his brow, his gaunt body stretched on the cross. And in that moment, I imagined myself as the one who had executed those blows. I was overwhelmed by shame—surely I had driven those nails, surely I had thrust that spear. Tears came, uncontrollable and unabashed, for my part in what felt like an ancient atrocity.

No one approached me; I suspect I was just one among many quietly moved in that sanctuary. But then my tears shifted—they became tears of gratitude. Because even as I stood there overwhelmed by my own unworthiness, I remembered that Christ’s sacrifice was given freely. He took every lash and nail for all of us, offering himself as the perfect Lamb of God so that our sins might be forgiven.

I’m no preacher, and I’ve often found it hard to speak about my faith. But that chilly November morning in Rome changed me: it brought me closer to God and gave me a new peace in sharing what I believe.

On this Good Friday, may you, too, feel the gentle power of Christ’s love. May you reflect on His sacrifice, take comfort in His forgiveness, and find your soul renewed by the promise of resurrection.