On Good Friday, we hope for peace for all

Good Friday is a nice reminder that more things bring us together than separate us, really.

The Christian holiday celebrates the crucifixion of Jesus more than 2000 years ago, an otherwise tragic event if not for what this means for Christians: the moment God’s gates were opened to human souls.

While not all are believers, the solemn and joyful Easter weekend seems to bring a certain peace to our community. Unlike Christmas, there’s no last-minute shopping for presents; little holiday-inspired stress, and (usually) a lot less snow.

Good Friday is particularly special. While most consider Easter Sunday the actual holiday, Christians hold Good Friday in special reverence. Not too long ago, most businesses closed during the midday hours, usually between noon and 3 p.m., which is when the Christian Bible tells us a solar eclipse caused darkness over the land and Jesus died on the cross. Even today, many businesses are closed, churches are packed, school is out of session, the streets are quiet for a while just after noon.

Seeing the effect on all Christian denominations during Good Friday is truly inspirational. Even to those of different faiths, or no faith at all, the solemnity of the faithful spreads to all and is a reason to celebrate. On Good Friday, it’s impossible to not feel the peace.

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