Mangaluru : Churches across the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi saw a large number of devotees observe Good Friday by offering special prayers on Friday.

In all the churches under Mangalore and Udupi dioceses, prayers commenced early in morning, with several devotees flocking for – Way of the Cross—which depicts the events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

For Christians, Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary, which took place a thousand years ago. Easter celebrations began Thursday.

During the sermon in a church, the priest gave an example how over the years the cross has served as the harbinger of peace to many people and countries and how it has changed their life. He asked people to enhance others lives by their virtues and to consider everyone equal.

On this day, candles will be extinguished in the churches and statues will be covered in black to mourn the death of Jesus. The Catholic church treats this religious holiday as a fast and penance.

On Friday, churches especially prayed for Pope Francis and political leaders across the globe, for the eradication of terrorism and for all those who are in need of prayers.

On the occasion, Mother Mary Sodality Association distributed fruits to patients of Wenlock district hospital. The former Vicar General of Mangaluru Diocese, Denis Moras Prabhu, participated as the chief guest.