At Calvary’s Heart: The Archdiocese of Bangalore Walks with Christ

Bangalore, April 18, 2025 — Under the warm glow of a setting sun and the solemn silence of a gathered faithful, the Archdiocese of Bangalore marked Good Friday with deep reverence and heartfelt devotion at St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral. The cathedral, a beacon of faith in the heart of the city, became a sacred space of reflection, sorrow, and above all, love — as thousands came together to remember the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. 

The Good Friday service was prayerfully organized by Fr. Arokya Swamy, Rector and Parish Priest of the cathedral, whose leadership brought grace and spiritual depth to the evening’s solemn liturgy. 

Leading the service Archbishop Peter Machado, invited everyone to look beyond the pain of the Cross and see the boundless love it represents. He shared: 

“The Cross is not a symbol of sorrow alone. It is the greatest sign of how much God loves us — that He gave His only Son, not to condemn, but to save. In His suffering, we find our healing.” 

Auxiliary Bishop Arokiaraj Satis Kumar, in his reflection, called for deeper participation in the sacred moment: 

“Let us use this moment — this sacred time — to celebrate meaningfully, by becoming partakers in the final moments of Jesus Christ. When we walk with Him through His suffering, we also rise with Him in His glory.” 

Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Susainathan offered words of comfort and encouragement, saying: 

“In the shadow of the Cross, we find the light of hope. Jesus carried our burdens, so we are never alone. In His sacrifice, we are embraced with love that has no end.” 

The liturgy included solemn readings from the Passion narrative, poignant hymns, and the veneration of the Cross — a deeply emotional moment. Many were seen praying with tears and gratitude. Some knelt in silence, others reached out gently to touch the wood of the Cross — each person bringing their own burdens and leaving with renewed strength. 

As the service came to a close and the cathedral slowly emptied, one truth echoed in every heart: the message of Good Friday is not just about death — it is about life, hope, and love that never ends. 

In the words of Archbishop Machado: “Even in the darkest hour, the Cross shines with hope. Because through it, we know — love has won.”