Delhi observes Good Friday with fasting and prayers

New Delhi, April 6 (IANS) Delhi observed Good Friday with fasts and day-long prayers to mark the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

The day started with fasting which will end Sunday when Christians celebrate Easter - marking the resurrection of Christ. Some members of the community start fasting around 40 days before Good Friday, in keeping with tradition.

Crowds thronged churches in central Delhi, old Delhi and south Delhi where people offered prayers.

"The day is of great significance to the Christian community because it signifies the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The day also reminds us, therefore, of the importance of giving alms and practising charity to help the less fortunate," said Renu Lyall, 22, working with a voluntary organisation.

"It is a day of sorrow. The community at church indulged in three-hour-long prayer services during which Christ's end-journey was recreated," Smita Jacob, a marketing executive, told IANS.

"Along the journey, Christ's journey through different stages is recreated," Jacob added.

Worshippers move to each stage, singing hymns as the story of betrayal, arrest, trial and crucifixion of Christ is narrated by the priest.

The Christian community will celebrate the resurrection of Christ on Easter Sunday.