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Mumbai, April 3: Millions of Christians worldwide are observing Good Friday 2026 today, April 3, marking the solemn commemoration of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. As the centerpiece of Holy Week, the day is defined by a transition from the communal Last Supper of Maundy Thursday to the quiet reflection of the Passion, preceding the celebration of Easter Sunday on April 5. In 2026, the observance continues to be characterized by traditional church services, fasting, and the sharing of scriptural messages that emphasize themes of sacrifice and redemption. Scroll below to get Bible verses and quotes to share on Good Friday 2026. Good Friday 2026: Why You Should Not Say 'Happy Good Friday' and What To Say Instead. For those sharing messages of faith today, several scriptural passages are traditionally highlighted for their connection to the Passion: The following quotes are often shared by community leaders and the faithful to encapsulate the day's meaning: Good Friday is a movable feast, with its date determined annually by the lunar calendar. It falls on the Friday following the first full moon after the spring equinox. While the day marks a somber event in Christian theology, it is referred to as "Good" based on the archaic usage of the word meaning "holy" or "pious." For believers, the day represents the "ultimate sacrifice" that leads to the resurrection and the promise of salvation. In the United States, Good Friday is recognized as a state holiday in 12 states, including Texas, Florida, and New Jersey. While it is not a federal holiday, the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq remain closed for the day. Internationally, countries like India, Italy, and the Philippines observe the day with large-scale processions and public reenactments of the Way of the Cross, often drawing thousands of participants despite the day's quiet and reflective nature.
A conversion racket was busted in Lucknow. The Nigohan police arrested a man accused of converting more than 50 Hindus in Baktauri Kheda village of the Nigohan area by luring them with promises of miraculous cures and financial support. The accused has been identified as Malkhan, alias Matthew. He was targeting uneducated families belonging to the SC community and luring them to convert to Christianity. Healing sessions used for conversion Police said Malkhan had converted to Christianity about ten years ago in 2016 and changed his name to Matthew. Since then, he started conducting "healing ...Read More >
Kolkata: Devotees across India observed Good Friday with solemn prayers and religious processions, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. At the Motherhouse of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, devotees gathered to offer prayers and participate in special services conducted to commemorate the day. Meanwhile, in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, thousands of devotees took part in the traditional 'Way of the Cross' procession, a ritual retracing the path of Christ's journey to Calvary. The Way of the Cross, also known as the Stations of the Cross (Via Crucis or Via Dolorosa), is a Catholic devo ...Read More >
Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], June 7 (ANI): Kerala Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, on Friday, greeted the Muslim brothers and sisters of Kerala on the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Ad'ha. "Eid-ul-Ad'ha glorifies the spirit of sacrifice and everlasting faith in the Almighty, inspire humanity to stay united through love, compassion and kind deeds that foster brotherhood and social harmony," the governor's X post read. Also Read | Indus Waters Treaty Suspension: Desperate Pakistan Wrote 4 Letters to India, Pleading Reinstatement of IWT, Say Sources. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pinarayi ...Read More >
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India] June 7 (ANI): Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy conveyed his greetings to the Muslim community on Bakrid (Eid al Adha), a festival celebrated as a symbol of sacrifice, an official statement said. The Chief Minister remembered that Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid al-Kabir in memory of one of the Islamic prophets, Ibrahim Assalam, who announced his readiness to sacrifice his son, obeying the orders of Almighty Allah. Also Read | Indus Waters Treaty Suspension: Desperate Pakistan Wrote 4 Letters to India, Pleading Reinstatement of IWT, Say Sources. ...Read More >
Hyderabad: City police commissioner V.C. Sajjanar on Tuesday asked the organisers of the 'Sri Veera Hanuman Vijay Yatra' during Hanuman Jayanti on April 2, to ensure that it was peaceful and orderly in the manner of the 'Sri Rama Shobha Yatra' last week. Referring to the recent the police commissioner asked stakeholders to ensure similar peaceful conduct. Speaking at a review meeting here, Sajjanar said 168 tributary processions from across the city were expected to merge with the main rally. About 3,000 police personnel, supported by different wings, will be deployed. The rally will be monit ...Read More >
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], April 3 (ANI): Devotees across India observed Good Friday with solemn prayers and religious processions, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. At the Motherhouse of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, devotees gathered to offer prayers and participate in special services conducted to commemorate the day. Also Read | Good Friday 2026 Message: PM Narendra Modi Pays Tribute to Jesus Christ's Sacrifice, Calls for Harmony and Compassion in Society. Meanwhile, in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, thousands of devotees took part in the traditional 'Way of the Cross' pr ...Read More >
Amid relentless protests by the Opposition over concerns regarding minority rights and chokehold on NGOs, the BJP-led central government on Wednesday dropped a scheduled debate in Lok Sabha on a bill to amend the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). According to sources cited by PTI news agency, the debate is unlikely to come up again during the Budget session of parliament, which is likely to conclude on Thursday. Opposition parties and minority organisations, including some church head ...Read More >
New Delhi, April 4 (SocialNews.XYZ) President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday greeted citizens on the eve of Easter. In a message, the President said, "On the auspicious occasion of Easter, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all fellow citizens, especially to the Christian community residing in India and abroad." She said Easter is a significant festival of Christianity. "The resurrection of Lord Jesus Christ encourages us to embrace the values of truth, love, compassion, sacrifice, and forgiveness," she said. "On this occasion, let us renew our resolve to promote harmony, peace, and brothe ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], April 5 (ANI): Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday extended warm greetings to the nation on the occasion of Easter, emphasising the festival's message of hope, truth, and goodness. In a post on X, Kharge wrote, "Warm greetings on the joyous occasion of Easter! The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a timeless reminder that truth always prevails over falsehood, hope rises above despair, and goodness conquers evil. May this Easter inspire compassion, strengthen bonds of fraternity, and usher in a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow." Earlier today, Leader of Opposition ...Read More >
The RBI bank holiday calendar will be followed by all public and private sector banks, including SBI, PNB, BOI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis Bank and others. Check out the full list of bank holidays this week: I. March 30: The banks will observe a holiday due to Mahavir Jayanti in Karnataka. II. March 31: Banks in Ahmedabad, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, New Delhi, Bihar, and Jharkhand will observe a holiday due to Mahavir Janmakalyanak/Mahavir Jayanti. ...Read More >
Imphal (Manipur) [India], April 3 (ANI): Good Friday was observed at MBC Centre Church in Imphal on Friday, with special prayers and worship services marking the day that commemorates the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Speaking to ANI, Pastor Rev. Zuankamang Daimai said that Good Friday is one of the most significant days for Christians, as it marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, who sacrificed His life for the sins of humanity. Also Read | Delhi Police Files FIR Over Alleged FSSAI Document Tampering, Seeks X Account Details in Defamation Probe. He informed that the church organised a special ...Read More >
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings on the occasion of Good Friday, emphasising the teachings and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In a post shared on X, the Prime Minister said, "Good Friday reminds us of Jesus Christ's sacrifice. May this day further deepen the values of harmony, compassion and forgiveness. May brotherhood and hope guide us all." Meanwhile, devotees across India observed Good Friday with solemn prayers and religious processions, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. At the Motherhouse of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, devotees gathered to of ...Read More >
Thane, Apr 5 (PTI) A family from Maharashtra's Thane district was allegedly swindled of more than Rs 1.66 crore by a man who exploited their fear of "black magic" and promised them divine remedies through elaborate rituals and pilgrimages, police said on Sunday. The Kasarvadavali police district on April 2 registered a first information report (FIR) against Manjunath Shetty, a resident of Andheri in neighbouring Mumbai, based on the family's allegations that they were manipulated into paying the accused over a period of two years to "neutralise black magic" performed by a relative, an officia ...Read More >
Kohima, Apr 5 (PTI) Nagaland celebrated Easter Sunday with prayers, sunrise services, and messages of hope, as leaders and churches across the state marked the resurrection of Jesus Christ with deep spiritual fervour. Easter also marks the culmination of the Holy Week, including a period of special fasting and reflection by believers beginning from Good Friday and leading up to Easter Sunday. Extending greetings, Governor Nand Kishore Yadav wished that the occasion inspire hope, renewal and peace, bringing joy and blessings to all. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said the day celebrates the rise ...Read More >
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India] June 7 (ANI): Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy conveyed his greetings to the Muslim community on Bakrid (Eid al Adha), a festival celebrated as a symbol of sacrifice, an official statement said. The Chief Minister remembered that Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid al-Kabir in memory of one of the Islamic prophets, Ibrahim Assalam, who announced his readiness to sacrifice his son, obeying the orders of Almighty Allah. CM Revanth Reddy expressed that the festival conveys a powerful message to humanity: people should strive to lead joyful lives while ...Read More >
Silchar: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday visited the flood-ravaged districts of Hailakandi and Sribhumi in the Barak Valley. He assured affected residents of providing timely disbursement of rehabilitation grants and swift repair of damaged infrastructure.This marks Sarma's second visit to the flood-hit region within four days, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Speaking to the media in Sribhumi after inspecting multiple relief camps, the CM said, "Flood-related problems may persist till July. I will return before Durga Puja to ensure that roads and infrastructure ar ...Read More >
Jammu- Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday reviewed the ongoing restoration work of the historic Mubarak Mandi complex, which was the power centre of the Dogra kings in Jammu, and stressed on enhancing its heritage appeal. The Mubarak Mandi Complex is one of Jammu's most significant architectural heritage sites and is envisioned as a comprehensive cultural centre, housing museums, conference venues and heritage hospitality services. Accompanied by Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Yudhvir Sethi during the visit, the chief minister was briefed in detail on the multi-phas ...Read More >
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], April 3 (ANI): Devotees across India observed Good Friday with solemn prayers and religious processions, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. At the Motherhouse of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, devotees gathered to offer prayers and participate in special services conducted to commemorate the day. Meanwhile, in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, thousands of devotees took part in the traditional 'Way of the Cross' procession, a ritual retracing the path of Christ's journey to Calvary. The Way of the Cross, also known as the Stations of the Cross (Via Cruci ...Read More >
Panaji, Apr 3 (PTI) Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday urged people to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the values of love and redemption on the solemn occasion of Good Friday. In a post on X, Sawant said the teachings of Jesus Christ on compassion, forgiveness and selflessness should continue to guide people towards peace and righteousness. "On this solemn occasion of Good Friday, let us reflect on the sacrifice of Lord Jesus Christ and the values of love and redemption he stood for," the chief minister said in the post. He said Christ's message of love, compassion and ...Read More >
Delhi (AsiaNews) - A significant step towards religious freedom and worship in the southern Indian state of Kerala, one of the most tolerant in terms of worship with a significant Christian (and Muslim) presence, capable of coexisting with the Hindu majority. A note from the Chief Minister's office points out that the local government, with a measure made official on 9 March, has granted maximum recognition to Pentecostal churches as part of the Church and as a Christian denomination. The decision comes a few days after a delegation of Pentecostal Church leaders met with Prime Minister Pinara ...Read More >
Mumbai, April 1: April's full moon, known as the Pink Moon, will be visible in India on the night of April 1-2, reaching its peak in the early hours of April 2. The lunar event marks the first full moon of spring and will be observable across most parts of the country under clear sky conditions. The peak illumination is expected around 7:42 am IST on April 2, meaning the moon will appear nearly full and bright throughout the night of April 1. NASA Artemis II Launch Today: Historic Mission to the Moon Set for April 1 Lift-Off. In India, the Pink Moon will rise in the eastern sky around sunset ...Read More >
Imphal: Good Friday was observed at MBC Centre Church in Imphal on Friday, with special prayers and worship services marking the day that commemorates the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Speaking to ANI, Pastor Rev. Zuankamang Daimai said that Good Friday is one of the most significant days for Christians, as it marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, who sacrificed His life for the sins of humanity. He informed that the church organised a special service from 7 AM to 12 noon, followed by extended prayer sessions. "We are holding special prayers for people from all communities, for peace in the la ...Read More >
Kolkata: As the city observed Good Friday with solemn prayers and packed services on Friday, sermons across both iconic and neighbourhood churches carried a message that extended beyond ritual observance -- calling for peace, forgiveness and coexistence in a time marked by conflict and unease.From prominent churches in the city centre to local parish congregations, church leaders reflected on Christ's sacrifice as a reminder to resist violence and uphold human dignity.At St John's Church on Council House Street, worshippers sat in silence through scripture readings and hymns. "Good Friday remi ...Read More >
CHENNAI: DMK Rajya Sabha MP P Wilson has strongly criticized the Centre's Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill, alleging that it targets Christian institutions and undermines minority rights. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Wilson claimed the government introduced the Bill during Easter to create fear among Christians. He said the amendments, particularly the retrospective divestment of properties, were "draconian, like staging a robbery at gunpoint in someone's house." "The Bill appears aimed at Christian missionaries, NGOs, and churches, including schools, colleges, h ...Read More >
Tirunelveli (Tamil Nadu) [India], April 5 (ANI): Easter is being celebrated with religious fervour and devotion at the Sacred Heart Church in Udaiyarpatti of Tirunelveli district, where thousands of Christians have gathered to participate in special prayers and Mass on Sunday. Devotees assembled in large numbers at the church to take part in the Easter Mass. During the ceremony, worshippers shared the light of candles with one another, symbolising hope, faith, and renewal. They also renewed their baptismal vows and offered prayers while holding candles, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosp ...Read More >
Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu) [India], April 5 (ANI): On the occasion of Easter, Tamil Nadu Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, a DMK candidate of the Secular Progressive Alliance from Thiruverumbur constituency, greeted devotees at St. Philomena's Church in Kattur today. The minister interacted with the congregation during the special Easter service commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ and conveyed his heartfelt wishes to the public. Also Read | 'To My Colleagues in AAP, Picture Abhi Baaki Hai': Raghav Chadha Defends Punjab Record, Shares Rajya Sabha Video. Following the c ...Read More >
KOCHI/KOZHIKODE/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Reaching out to the Christian community on Easter, Home Minister Amit Shah urged voters in Kerala to back the BJP-led NDA in the upcoming assembly elections, saying the alliance would usher in a "prosperous Kerala" if voted to power. Addressing a public meeting in Kunnathunad constituency in Ernakulam district, Shah said the NDA government, if elected, would act decisively on pending issues, including the alleged Sabarimala gold scam. "Those responsible will be punished within two months of the NDA coming to power," he asserted. He also promised that Kera ...Read More >
Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], June 7 (ANI): Kerala Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, on Friday, greeted the Muslim brothers and sisters of Kerala on the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Ad'ha. 'Eid-ul-Ad'ha glorifies the spirit of sacrifice and everlasting faith in the Almighty, inspire humanity to stay united through love, compassion and kind deeds that foster brotherhood and social harmony,' the governor's X post read. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also extended his wishes on the festival. The Chief Minister said, 'As we celebrate Bakrid, we renew the remembrance of sacr ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], June 7 (ANI): Delhi police conducted vehicle checking in some parts of the city ahead of Eid-Al-Adha, which will be celebrated on Saturday, to create a sense of security among people and appealed to people to maintain peace and harmony. Intensified checks were conducted in the Kartavya Path area, where police personnel were seen stopping and inspecting vehicles during routine patrols. Similarly, the police carried out security checks at the Yusuf Sarai area, the Ranjit Singh flyover, and the Nelson Mandela Marg. Also Read | Indus Waters Treaty Suspension: Desperate Pakista ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], June 7 (ANI): Scores of devotees thronged the historic Jama Masjid on Saturday morning to offer prayers and celebrate Eid al-Adha. Dressed in traditional attire, worshippers came together in a spirit of devotion, unity, and celebration, marking one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar. As the first light of dawn broke over old Delhi, the mosque's grand courtyard was brimming with people offering prayers and exchanging greetings of peace and goodwill. The air echoed with chants of 'Eid Mubarak,' as families, young and old, embraced and celebrated the sp ...Read More >