Good Friday is a solemn Christian holy day commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary...

Youths of Saint Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church staged a solemn dramatisation of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Friday to mark Good Friday, drawing parishioners into a reflective observance of the day.

The reenactment began with Jesus being taken before Pilate for judgment, followed by scenes of His beating and a procession through the community. Residents and worshippers watched as the portrayal unfolded, while members of the congregation followed in a subdued mood, reflecting on the significance of Christ’s suffering.

The dramatisation continued with the crucifixion, where Jesus was nailed to the cross. During the portrayal, He expressed thirst and was given water, symbolising pain and humiliation. After His death, His mother, Mary, received His body when it was brought down from the cross, before it was laid in the tomb.

The officiating priest, Rev. Fr. MCAnthony Nwoko, led the congregation in Catholic doctrines and delivered a sermon highlighting the spiritual meaning of the day.

Ofondu Ugochukwu, a Political Science student at the University of Lagos who played the role of Jesus, described the experience as demanding but fulfilling. He said he studied extensively and watched films to prepare for the role, noting that the initially selected actor withdrew due to the complexity of the lines.

Nwoko also spoke on the significance of Good Friday and Easter Sunday, focusing on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He noted that although Jesus had much to say, He chose silence, stressing that silence is not weakness, and described the mystery of Christ as God who became man.

A church member, Ikechukwu, reflected on the sorrowful mysteries of Christ’s suffering, saying the Stations of the Cross provide a vivid depiction of His crucifixion.

Nkiru Okoye, a member of the Parish Finance Council, highlighted the importance of the Easter Triduum, comprising Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday, describing it as central to the Christian faith.

The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Clinton Ekemezie of the Archdiocese of Lagos, said the events began on Holy Thursday with the betrayal of Jesus, continued through His crucifixion on Good Friday and culminated in His resurrection on Easter Sunday.

He urged Christians to reflect on the suffering Christ endured and to live in love while emulating His ways.

The dramatisation ended as a solemn reminder of sacrifice, love and redemption, leaving the congregation with a renewed sense of reflection and spiritual commitment.