Catholics mark Good Friday with Way of the Cross processions as Easter begins

Thousands of Catholic faithful across the country marked Good Friday by participating in Way of the Cross processions, with calls for peace and unity as the Easter weekend begins.

Good Friday, one of the most important days in the Christian calendar, commemorates the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary.

For Catholics, the day is observed through the Way of the Cross, a spiritual pilgrimage that retraces the final hours of Jesus’ journey to crucifixion.

The procession typically features 14 stations, each representing a specific moment of Jesus’ passion, from his condemnation to his death on the cross.

In Nairobi, Archbishop Philip Anyolo led hundreds of Catholics in a procession along Parliament Road, where they reflected on the pain and sacrifice Jesus endured for humanity.

In Mombasa, Archbishop Martin Kivuva led worshippers at the Holy Ghost Cathedral in marking the day.

He urged Kenyans to uphold peace and unity during the Easter period and encouraged Christians to continue praying for the country.

Archbishop Kivuva also cautioned road users to be vigilant and responsible as they travel for the holidays.

In Machakos, Governor Wavinya Ndeti and her deputy Francis Mwangangi joined Catholic faithful in a Way of the Cross procession along the Machakos-Kangundo Road.

The procession was led by Bishop Norman King’oo of the Machakos Diocese, who guided the faithful through the somber walk.

In Kiambu, Catholics from St. Anne and Joachim Riara Parish held a 10-kilometre Way of the Cross procession through Kiambu Town.

Led by Fr. Gabriel Kiranga, the faithful used the moment to reflect on their 40-day Lenten journey, which began on Ash Wednesday and is marked by fasting, prayer, and almsgiving.

Fr. Kiranga said the Lenten period mirrors the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness and serves as a call to repentance and renewal.

He also delivered a strong message to political leaders, urging them to serve with integrity and listen to the needs of citizens.

Fr. Kiranga challenged leaders to uplift the lives of vulnerable Kenyans and to give without fanfare, reminding politicians that true charity should be done in humility.