Accra: Christians in Ghana today joined their counterparts worldwide to commemorate Good Friday, one of the most significant events on the Christian calendar. The day marks the suffering, crucifixion, and death of Jesus Christ to atone for the sins of humanity and reconcile believers with God eternally. Holy Friday is observed as part of the Paschal Triduum, which constitutes the final three days of Lent and Holy Week.
According to Ghana News Agency, across the country, many Christians will wear black or mourning attire to attend special church services, while others will participate in conventions, musical concerts, and evangelistic programs to mark the occasion. Members of denominations including Catholics, Methodists, and Anglicans will observe the day with worship services, fasting, prayer vigils, and almsgiving. Globally, Good Friday is recognized as a legal holiday in many countries, including Ghana. In Germany, laws prohibit activities such as dancing and horse racing to preserve the solemnity of the day. Within the Catholic Church, Baptism and the anointing of the sick are the only sacraments celebrated during this period, while Anglicans observe services such as the 'Seven Last Words from the Cross.'
Ahead of the commemoration, Christian leaders in Ghana shared reflections on the meaning of Easter. The Reverend Bright Mawuena Nfodjoh of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church cautioned that Easter was increasingly dominated by social activities, urging the Church to reclaim its sacredness through revitalized worship and engagement with traditional authorities. The Presiding Bishop of The Methodist Church Ghana, Most Reverend Professor Johnson K. Asamoah-Gyadu, called on Ghanaians to embrace humility, integrity, and selfless service, stressing that 'public service must not be seen as an avenue for personal enrichment but as a platform to serve God's people.' He said the resurrection symbolized hope and transformation, urging citizens to reflect Christ's example in justice, love, and reconciliation.
Reverend Stephen Yenusom Wengam, General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, encouraged world leaders and Christians to recommit to peace-building, noting that Easter offered enduring hope in troubled times. He announced that Ghana would host the 2026 World Congress of the Assemblies of God Fellowship, the first time the event would be held in Africa. The commemorations continue through the Easter weekend, culminating in Easter Sunday, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.