Good Friday is the most solemn day of the year for Christians. This is the day when we remember Christ’s death on the cross for us. We remember the suffering He endured for our sake. We are reminded of the depths of His love for us.
Do not let Good Friday go by as just any other day of the year. Take time to contemplate all that Christ’s death on the cross signifies for us. This isn’t a day for Easter egg hunts or last-minute shopping for Easter Sunday. Set this day aside to grow near to the Lord.
We’ve created a list of twenty-five ways you can make Good Friday into a time of spiritual growth. We don’t suggest attempting all of these things, but try praying through the list and asking the Lord to point out to you which things will be most beneficial for you.
25 Things You Can Do On Good Friday
- Wake up earlier than normal to begin the day with sacrifice and prepare your heart for the day.
- Wear black to symbolize the mourning of Christ’s death.
- Observe the obligatory day of fasting and abstinence as required by the Church (no more than one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal), but also fast from bread as a reminder of the Bread of Life.
- Shut off the television, computer, social media, or (gasp) your phone for the day.
- Avoid shopping or other errands that will distract you from the meaning of the day.
- Pray the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary.
- Remain silent from noon to 3 p.m. the hours in which Christ suffered on the Cross.
- Use the Lectio Divina method as you meditate on the Good Friday readings
- If there is anyone in your life that you need to offer forgiveness to, forgive them today.
- Venerate the cross either in your own home or in a Church.
- Memorize John 3:16 or another Bible verse.
- Take our quiz to see which person in the Passion story you most identify with.
- Watch The Passion of the Christ or another religious themed movie.
- Pray (or attend) the Stations of the Cross.
- Visit the imprisoned or write a letter to a prisoner as a way of showing the mercy of Christ to others.
- Meditate on the 7 Last Words of Christ.
- Pray the Litany of the Passion.
- Discover the reason that Christ had to die on the cross.
- Clean or organize your home as you reflect on how Christ has made you “clean.”
- Attend the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion liturgy at your local church.
- Begin the Divine Mercy Novena.
- Study these beautiful depictions of Christ’s death on the cross.
- Pray the Seven Sorrows of Mary.
- Write a thank-you note to Jesus for all He has done for you.
- Share the story of Good Friday with someone in your life. Spend time discussing it. Invite them to Easter Sunday Mass to experience the joyful ending and victory of Christ.
What are your Good Friday traditions? Please leave suggestions in the comments!
More Good Friday Resources
