On the evening of April 17, 2025, Metropolitan Feodosiy of Tambov and Rasskazovsky presided over a solemn morning service at the Transfiguration Cathedral in Tambov, marking the beginning of Good Friday celebrations. This service featured the reading of the Twelve Passion Gospels, a significant event in the Orthodox Christian calendar that prepares the faithful for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, which is commemorated on Good Friday.
Metropolitan Feodosiy was assisted by a number of clergy members, including Archpriest Georgy Neretin, Archpriest Andrey Makhorenko, Archpriest Igor Grudanov, Archpriest Viktor Lisyunin, Priest Alexander Neplyuev, Priest Pavel Perikov, Priest Evgeny Mityukhlyaev, Deacon Konstantin Polozov, Deacon Anthony Dik, and Deacon Daniel Lopukhov. During the service, notable attendees included N.G. Astafieva, the Secretary of the Tambov Regional Branch of the WRNS, G.A. Sheshcherina, the Head of the Tambov Regional Center for Mobile Electronic Education, and numerous parishioners.
The Archieratic Choir of the Transfiguration Cathedral, under the direction of Regent N.A. Lyubimskaya, performed liturgical chants that added to the solemn atmosphere of the service. Following the fifth Gospel reading, a tradition was observed where the Metropolitan, accompanied by the singing of the antiphon 'Today hangs on a tree', carried the Cross depicting the Crucifixion from the altar and placed it in the center of the church. This act symbolizes the central theme of Good Friday, reflecting on the suffering and sacrifice of Christ.
As the service continued, seven Gospels dedicated to the Holy Passion of the Savior were read, allowing the congregation to meditate on the profound significance of Christ's suffering. At the conclusion of the morning service, worshippers bowed to the Lord's Cross, which was positioned in the church's center, marking a moment of reverence and reflection.
The observance of Holy Week is particularly significant in the Orthodox Christian tradition, culminating in the events of Good Friday. This week is the last of Great Lent, a period of fasting and prayer that leads up to Easter Sunday. Each day of Holy Week carries its own unique meaning, with Good Friday representing the climax of the week—a day dedicated to mourning and reflection on the sacrifice of Jesus.
According to the teachings of the Orthodox Church, Good Friday is not merely a day of sorrow but a time for deep spiritual introspection. Believers are encouraged to contemplate difficult questions about their lives and responsibilities: 'Who am I? Am I responsible for my life? What will happen after death?' These reflections prompt individuals to look beyond their daily routines and consider their spiritual journeys.
As Father Maxim Kozlov noted in an interview with RIA Novosti, the services during this period challenge individuals, especially those not deeply immersed in religious life. He stated, "This event is so filled with deep meanings that it contradicts the usual secular lifestyle—eating delicious food, watching a detective, or simply having a good time. These services place a person before a choice, where it is impossible to sit on two chairs."
On Good Friday, various customs and traditions are observed. For instance, it is considered auspicious to bake bread on this day, as it is thought to possess healing properties. However, activities such as sewing and knitting are discouraged, as there is a belief that these could lead to misfortunes. In some regions, people traditionally light bonfires to protect against evil forces, although the church views this practice with skepticism.
Good Friday is characterized by its strict prohibitions, including refraining from work, loud celebrations, and even watching television or using social media. It is a day for spiritual reflection, prayer, and good deeds. The faithful are encouraged to attend church services, with the ideal being to participate in all liturgical events of the day. If attendance is not possible, believers are advised to engage in personal reflection and prayer at home.
This year, Good Friday falls on April 18, a date that coincides with the celebration of Easter for both Orthodox and Catholic Christians, a rare occurrence due to the differences in their calendars. This alignment emphasizes the shared significance of the day across Christian denominations.
As the culmination of Holy Week, Good Friday serves as a poignant reminder of the crucifixion of Christ. The services conducted on this day are imbued with deep symbolism and solemnity. The removal of the Shroud, representing the body of Christ, is a central event during the liturgical observances. This act is accompanied by prayers and hymns that reflect on the grief of the Virgin Mary and the significance of Christ's sacrifice.
In summary, Good Friday is a day steeped in tradition and spiritual depth, inviting believers to reflect on their faith and the meaning of Christ's suffering. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for humanity and the hope that follows in the celebration of Easter. As Father Nikolai Savchenko eloquently expressed, "We are all guilty—our sins led to His sacrifice. But through this death, we received forgiveness. This day is not just sorrow but a call to improve ourselves and live a deeper life."
