Orthodox Good Friday in United Kingdom ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Orthodox Good Friday in United Kingdom and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Orthodox Good Friday, also known as Holy Friday, is the day on which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday, and may coincide with the Jewish observance of Passover. It is also known as Black Friday, due to the somberness of the day.
In the Orthodox Church, Good Friday is a day of mourning and fasting. The day begins with the Matins of Holy Friday, a special service which includes readings from the Old Testament prophecies about the Suffering Messiah. This is followed by the Royal Hours, during which the Twelve Gospels are read, each one followed by a short homily.
In the afternoon, the Vespers of Holy Friday is held, which includes a procession around the church with the Epitaphios, a large icon depicting Christ’s body on the shroud. This is followed by the Lamentations at the Tomb of Christ, during which the hymns of Holy Saturday are chanted.
On Good Friday evening, the Matins of Holy Saturday is held, which includes more readings from the Old Testament about the Suffering Messiah, as well as the story of the Harrowing of Hades. This is followed by the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great, which is celebrated on Holy Saturday morning.