Orthodox Good Friday in Lebanon

History and Significance: Orthodox Good Friday, also known as Great Friday or Holy Friday, is a solemn day observed by Eastern Orthodox Christians in Lebanon and around the world. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary, which is a central event in Christian theology. The date of Orthodox Good Friday differs from that of Western Christianity due to the use of the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar.

Traditions: In Lebanon, a country with a significant Orthodox Christian population, this day is marked with various religious traditions that reflect mourning and reverence for the crucified Christ. Some of these traditions include:

• Church Services: Devotees attend special church services that often include reading of the Twelve Gospels, which narrate the passion and death of Christ. The church is usually adorned with black to signify mourning.

• Processions: Some communities may hold processions where icons depicting Jesus are carried through streets or within churches to remember his path to crucifixion.

• Decoration of the Epitaphios: A religious icon representing Christ's body (the Epitaphios) is decorated with flowers and carried in procession before being placed in a symbolic tomb within the church.

Observances: On Orthodox Good Friday in Lebanon:

• Many followers fast or abstain from meat and dairy products as a form of sacrifice and penitence.

• People often spend time reflecting on their faith, attending church services throughout the day, participating in solemn prayers, and observing moments of silence.

• Acts of charity are encouraged as a way to honor Jesus' sacrifices by helping those in need.

The observance serves not only as a remembrance but also as spiritual preparation for the celebration of Easter Sunday, which symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus Christ.