Christians around the world today are observing Good Friday.
It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary outside the ancient city walls of Jerusalem. It is a day of mourning in the church and special Good Friday services focus on Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross.
Good Friday always occurs before Easter Sunday.
Many special services in churches focus on the seven last words of Christ on the cross.
The U.S. doesn’t recognize Good Friday as a federal holiday, but it’s a holiday in a dozen states or territories. That includes Connecticut, Delaware, Guam, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky (half day), Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Puerto Rico and Tennessee.
Many state and local government offices, courts and schools will be closed for all or part of the day.
