Santarém, located in the western part of Pará, is celebrating Good Friday, April 18, 2025, with a series of sacred performances that depict the final moments of Jesus Christ. This day holds significant importance for Christians worldwide, marking the crucifixion and death of Jesus. The events in Santarém are part of a rich cultural and religious tradition that aims to evoke deep emotions among attendees.
The first of the two major shows is "Paixão de Cristo," presented by the Grupo Teatral Kauré at Praça Tiradentes, starting at 7 PM. This year, the group is commemorating its 40th anniversary and has become known for its large-scale open-air performances, which are considered the biggest of their kind in the western Pará region. The show will feature hundreds of actors and extras, with exciting new elements aimed at captivating the audience from start to finish. Tickets for this performance are priced at R$ 20.00 for full admission and R$ 10.00 for half price.
Simultaneously, at 7:30 PM, the Grupo de Teatro de Aparecida (Grutap) will present "Jesus, o Filho do Homem" at the Complexo Paroquial da Igreja Nossa Senhora Aparecida. This production combines modern elements with emotional storytelling, showcasing the active participation of local youth. This show will also return on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at 8 PM, with tickets available for R$ 8.00. It is anticipated that over two thousand people will attend both performances over the weekend.
The Holy Week festivities in Santarém commenced on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, with the show "Memória Cênica 2025 – Louvado Sejas, Meu Senhor, por Tua Paixão," performed by the Grupo Franciscano de Teatro Kabi Kaxi, celebrating its 15th anniversary. This performance offered a reflective look at human suffering and the pain of nature, setting the stage for the subsequent Good Friday events.
Good Friday is a day of reflection and mourning for many Christians, characterized by solemn ceremonies such as the Celebration of the Passion of Christ and the Via Crucis, which reenact the last moments of Jesus. In Brazil, it is a national holiday, and many choose to abstain from red meat, opting instead for fish and other foods.
The day's program in Santarém includes a Via Sacra starting at 6 AM from the Capela de Nossa Senhora das Dores to the Cruzeiro do Alto da Cruz, followed by visits to the "Santo Sepulcro" and "Calvário" from 8 AM to 5 PM at the respective chapels. At 9 AM, the Sermão das Sete Palavras will be delivered at the Santuário Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição by Revmo. Sr. Pe. Gilsimar Tavares Vieira. At 3 PM, a solemn liturgical action will take place at the same sanctuary, including the reading of the Passion of Christ, adoration of the Holy Cross, and distribution of the Holy Eucharist.
Later in the evening, at 7 PM, the presentation of biblical figures will be followed by the touching Sermão do Descendimento da Cruz in front of the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, delivered by Revmo. Sr. Pe. Carlos Geovane Nunes Magri. The day will culminate in a solemn procession of the Dead Lord, carrying the images of Christ and the Virgin of Sorrows through the city streets, concluding at the Santuário Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição.
In Cuiabá, another significant event is taking place. The Auto da Paixão de Cristo 2025 will be performed on Good Friday at 6:30 PM and 9 PM, continuing until Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025. This performance is organized by the State Secretariat of Social Assistance and Citizenship (Setasc) through the SER Família Fé e Vida program, initiated by first lady Virginia Mendes. The event promises to provide an unforgettable experience, filled with emotions and reflections, and is expected to draw large crowds.
Moreover, the event integrates the Mutirão da Cidadania, which offers free services to the community from 2 PM to 6 PM until April 20. These services include the issuance of second copies of documents, various guidance, and psychological support aimed at promoting rights and strengthening family bonds. The combination of artistic expression with essential services underscores the government’s commitment to social well-being.
In Belo Horizonte and the surrounding areas, numerous religious activities are also taking place. The morning of Good Friday saw many faithful participating in the Via Sacra, retracing the path of Jesus to Calvary. In Sabará, a group set out at 4 AM from the Igreja São Francisco de Assis, while in Santa Luzia, a Penitential Walk began at 5 AM. These events reflect the deep faith and commitment of the community to honor this significant day.
In the capital, the Via Sacra commenced at 9 AM near the Catedral Cristo Rei, gathering hundreds of participants. A liturgical action is scheduled at 3 PM, led by the metropolitan archbishop, Dom Walmor Oliveira de Azevedo. The evening will feature a new Via Sacra, along with the Sermão do Descendimento da Cruz and a procession with the Dead Lord, further immersing attendees in the solemnity of the day.
As the day unfolds, the significance of Good Friday resonates deeply within the hearts of many, providing a moment for contemplation, community, and shared faith. The celebrations across various cities highlight the enduring power of tradition and the collective remembrance of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
