GOOD Friday marks a day of solemnity as it commemorates the sacrificial crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
As mentioned in Hebrews 9:28, “Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many.” In his homily, Fr. Rolly dela Cruz, rector of the Manila Cathedral, emphasized how Jesus — despite the pain, betrayal and suffering He endured — chose not to give up.
Dela Cruz connected the Old Testament’s depiction of the “suffering servant” in the Book of Isaiah with Jesus Christ, pointing out that Jesus embodies the characteristics of the servant.
“The suffering servant is a good listener, a good speaker, faithful and trusting,” he said. He highlighted how Jesus spent much of His life hidden and in silence, using that time to listen and grow in submission to God’s will.
He challenged the faithful to reflect on their own struggles and remain steadfast in times of adversity, following the example of Jesus, who remained faithful even in suffering.
“Jesus could have surrendered, but he did not because He was a faithful servant,” he said.
He also reminded the faithful to emulate Jesus’ trust in the Father, even during moments of despair.
“The suffering servant is someone who listens, who is faithful and who trusts in the Lord. I hope we are the same,” dela Cruz said.
He urged the public to examine their own faithfulness, drawing attention to how modern-day Christians often choose convenience over commitment.
For Filipino Catholics, Good Friday marks a day of practicing religious traditions, such as the Siete Palabras (Seven Last Words), or the seven final phrases, that Jesus uttered before He died.
Churches will also hold the “Senakulo,” or the traditional play commemorating the life and death of Jesus.
Some devotees will also go as far as self-flagellation or crucifixion to reenact the experience of Jesus as He was nailed to the cross.
These are common in places like Pampanga and Bulacan, where the devotees use whips and ropes to inflict wounds on themselves as they march barefoot, carrying crosses.
As Holy Week continues, dela Cruz implored the public to not only venerate Jesus because it is timely, but also to ensure that even after Holy Week and in times of adversity, their faith remains steadfast.