SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Voices lifted in praise and moments of quiet reflection marked Good Friday, as the community gathered to honor its meaning inside the Cathedral of Saint Peter.

As Easter approaches, Christians around the world observe Good Friday, a day of deep significance. Friday afternoon, Saint Peter’s Cathedral held its Good Friday liturgy, led by the Diocese’s bishop and attended by members of the local parish community.

The day is part of the Church’s most sacred period, which includes three holy observances.

Bishop Joseph Bambera explained these as Holy Thursday, commemorating the Lord’s Supper; Good Friday, reflecting on the Passion of Jesus; and Easter Sunday, celebrating the Resurrection of Christ.

Bishop Bambera also noted that the message of Good Friday continues to resonate, drawing parallels to what is seen in the world today.

“These days are so significant to us because they really capture everything that gives us meaning and purpose and a way forward as Christians. You know, it’s interesting that today, as we celebrate Good Friday and we focus on the cross. Our world globally, in far too many places, particularly the Middle East, Ukraine, parts of Africa, there’s war. There’s suffering in our own land. Many immigrants are being treated very, very unfairly,” said Bambera.

“That’s no different than when Jesus accepted the cross. His message of peace and reconciliation and the power of God’s love and grace was not accepted. And he died,” said Bambera.

Kristine Colaneri, a parishioner at the Cathedral of Saint Peter, shared why this day holds such deep personal meaning for her.

“This is a very solemn day for me. This is a very sacred day for me. This is a way for me to remind myself of what he did for not only me, but everybody else,” said Colaneri.

Bishop Bambera left us with a powerful reminder that Good Friday offers a message of hope, encouraging people to find strength and perspective during life’s hardships.

“We look to that cross today with a sense of hope in the midst of all the struggles that we face. Because Jesus cross wasn’t the end of the story, but it gave way to life and resurrection as he was raised from the dead. And so, through the power of God, we believe that we have hope even in these difficult times,” said Bambera.

The Cathedral of Saint Peter will celebrate Easter Sunday Mass at 6:30 a.m., 10 a.m., and 12:15 p.m.