· A detailed understanding of what happened on Good Friday – what happened during Jesus’s crucifixion and why [6]

Good Friday, also known as Holy Friday, is a significant event in Christianity because it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. This event is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday.

Here's a detailed understanding of what happened on Good Friday:

1. Jesus's Arrest: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was arrested by Roman soldiers. This was after He was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, one of his twelve apostles, who identified him to the soldiers by giving him a kiss.

2. Trial Before Pilate: Jesus was brought before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, because the Jewish authority was not permitted to execute people. Pilate found no reason to charge Jesus but the crowd demanded his crucifixion.

3. Crucifixion: Jesus was forced to carry his own cross to the site of execution, a place called 'The Skull', or "Golgotha" in Hebrew. There, he was crucified along with two criminals. Above his head on the cross was a sign that read "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews."

4. Death: Jesus suffered for approximately six hours on the cross. During his last moments, he uttered "It is finished," and gave up his spirit. This moment is significant as Christians believe it signifies the completion of Jesus's mission on earth to provide salvation for mankind.

5. Burial: After confirming his death, the soldiers allowed Joseph of Arimathea to take Jesus's body. He was then wrapped in a clean linen cloth and placed in his own new tomb.

The reason for Jesus's crucifixion is a fundamental aspect of Christian beliefs. It is believed that Jesus sacrificed his life out of love for all people, taking on the punishment for the world's sins. This act is seen as a gift, providing believers the opportunity to gain eternal life.