We commemorate the death of Jesus on the cross just outside the wall of Jerusalem. This is the only day of the year the Eucharist is not celebrated in the usual form of the Mass, but the celebration of the Passion of the Lord will take place.
This consists of three parts:
. The Liturgy of the Word:
Includes readings from Isaiah
and Hebrews, the Passion
narrative, and solemn
intercessions.
· Veneration of the Cross: Late
in the 4th century, the
veneration of the Cross was
introduced into the Good
Friday traditions in Jerusalem.
The slow processsion of
people to venerate the cross,
remains a significant feature
of the Good Friday Service.
. Holy Communion: The
deacon or priest brings the
ciborium with the Blessed
Sacrament from the place of
repose to the altar while all
stand in silence. All join in
praying the Lord's Prayer and
reception of Holy Communion
follows. After the concluding
prayer, all depart in silence.