Orthodox believers mark Good Friday, the saddest day of the year

The Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC) marks Good Friday today, the saddest day of the year, in remembrance of the suffering of Jesus Christ on the cross.

After his arrest, Christ was brought before the Jewish high priests, accused of teaching contrary to the laws of Judaism. With false testimonies, the high priest Caiaphas handed him over to the Roman governor Pontius Pilate, who, after a brief trial and despite doubts about his guilt, condemned him under pressure from the people.

According to ancient custom, the people chose to have Barabbas released, while Christ was sentenced to crucifixion. After being scourged and humiliated, he was crucified on Golgotha, where he died.

According to the Gospels, at the moment of his death, darkness and an earthquake occurred, and Christ, before he expired, prayed for forgiveness for those who condemned him.

Good Friday is observed in silence – church bells do not ring, but services are announced with wooden clappers. The Royal Hours are served, and in the evening the Epitaphios, a symbol of Christ's suffering, is brought out, followed by a procession around the church.