In the Shadow of the Cross: The Good Friday Liturgy

The Cathedral was filled to capacity on Good Friday, 3 April 2026, as the faithful of the Diocese of East Anglia gathered for the Solemn Celebration of the Passion of the Lord, led by Bishop Peter Collins.

The liturgy began in profound silence. As the procession entered, all stood in reverence, marking the solemnity of the day. Upon reaching the sanctuary, Bishop Peter and the ministers prostrated themselves before the altar, a powerful gesture of humility and sorrow, setting the tone for the sacred observance of the Lord’s Passion.

The Liturgy of the Word followed, drawing the congregation deeply into the mystery of Christ’s suffering and sacrifice. The first reading, from Isaiah 52:13–53:12, presented the Suffering Servant, despised, rejected, and bearing the sins of many. This prophetic text finds its fulfilment in Christ, offering a poignant reflection on the redemptive nature of suffering and the obedience of the servant who gives his life for others.

The second reading, from Hebrews 4:14–16; 5:7–9, reminded the faithful that Christ is our great high priest, one who is not distant from human suffering but has entered fully into it. Through his obedience and endurance, even unto death, he becomes the source of eternal salvation. This passage calls believers to approach God with confidence, trusting in the mercy won through Christ’s Passion.

The Gospel proclaimed was the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to John, John 18:1–19:42. St John’s account presents Christ not only as the suffering victim but as the sovereign Lord who freely embraces his mission. Even in his arrest and crucifixion, Christ remains in control, revealing that his death is not defeat, but the fulfilment of divine love and purpose. Together, these readings invite the faithful to contemplate the depth of God’s love, made manifest in the Cross.

Following the homily by Bishop Peter, the Solemn Intercessions were offered. These ancient prayers, encompassing the needs of the Church and the world, drew the assembly into a universal act of petition, reflecting the boundless reach of Christ’s saving work.

The liturgy then moved to the Veneration of the Cross. Deacon Jonathan carried the Cross to the altar and presented it to Bishop Peter, who gradually revealed it to the faithful. At each stage, the Cross was lifted high, and the congregation was invited to kneel in silent adoration. This moment of stillness allowed all present to reflect deeply on the instrument of salvation.

Bishop Peter was the first to venerate the Cross, followed by the ministers, and then the entire congregation. With the Cathedral completely full, the steady procession of the faithful approaching the Cross became a profound expression of devotion, unity, and gratitude.

Following the veneration, the altar, until then left bare, was prepared for Holy Communion. In silence, Deacon Jonathan, wearing a humeral veil, brought the Blessed Sacrament from the place of repose. Accompanied by two ministers bearing lighted candles, the Sacrament was reverently placed upon the altar.

The faithful then received Holy Communion, entering into communion with Christ whose Passion they had just commemorated.

The liturgy concluded with a simple dismissal, after which the congregation departed in quiet reflection, carrying with them the solemnity and depth of the Passion they had just commemorated.

In its solemnity and depth, the Good Friday celebration once again drew the Diocese into the heart of the Paschal Mystery, inviting all to contemplate the immeasurable love revealed in Christ’s sacrifice.

Photographs from the Good Friday celebration can be viewed here.

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