Observing Good Friday in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, has encouraged citizens to embrace the principles of sacrifice, compassion, and selfless service during the observance of Good Friday.
This day marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
In a message shared on X, he stated, “Let us honour the values of sacrifice, compassion, and selfless service. May this day inspire us to uphold peace, empathy, and humanity.”
Both Odisha's Governor, Hari Babu Kambhampati, and the Leader of the Opposition, Naveen Patnaik, also conveyed their Good Friday messages to the public.
Kambhampati expressed, “I join our Christian sisters and brothers in observing Good Friday, committing to follow the path of love, compassion, and sacrifice exemplified by Lord Jesus.”
Naveen Patnaik, the Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, shared on X, “May the solemn occasion of #GoodFriday fill our lives with love, compassion, and forgiveness. May the day of sacrifice guide us in the path of peace, harmony, and kindness.”
Throughout the state, churches held services to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary, as reported by official sources.
Many faithful attended various churches to worship and reflect on the significant sacrifice made by Jesus Christ. Special services and sermons were organized to honor this momentous occasion.
Odisha is home to a considerable Christian population, particularly in districts such as Kandhamal, Gajapati, Sundergarh, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar.
According to the 2011 census, Christians made up approximately 2.77% of Odisha's total population, a rise from 1.15% in 1961.
