The Good Friday mass included the veneration of the cross, where congregants bows or touch the crucifix, an act symbolising faith in Christ’s triumph over death and his sacrifice for humanity.
KOTA KINABALU: Thousands of congregants gathered at the St Thomas Catholic Church in Kepayan on Friday (April 18) to observe Good Friday, the second day of the Easter Triduum, despite the sweltering heat.
Many arrived as early as 1pm to secure shaded seats ahead of the 3pm mass.
Those who came later were seen standing along the corridor of a building typically used for Sunday school and religious classes.
This year, there was no rain, only relentless heat.
Congregants came prepared, equipped with umbrellas, foldable chairs, and portable mini fans, both traditional handheld and battery-powered, to stay cool throughout the service.
Some took shelter under tents set up by the church, while others stood in the open, umbrellas in hand, quietly participating in the solemn prayers and readings commemorating the passion and death of Jesus Christ.
For Catholics, Good Friday is part of the Easter Triduum - three holy days that begin with Holy Thursday and end with the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, culminating in the celebration of Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday.
The mass included the veneration of the cross, where congregants expressed reverence by bowing or touching the crucifix, an act symbolising faith in Christ’s triumph over death and his sacrifice for humanity.
While kissing the cross was once common, it has been discouraged since the Covid-19 pandemic due to health concerns.
Despite the heat, the mood remained reverent and serene, with families and individuals standing side by side in quiet reflection, united in faith.
One of the congregants, Terisah Batalis, 73, had an early start.
“I came early because I am part of the St Thomas Women’s League. There is a lot to prepare as we expect a big crowd today, just like every Good Friday mass,” said Batalis, who was among those who arrived at 1pm.
She had gone to church earlier to prepare for the mass.
“I went home to freshen up and came back to church. Even at that hour, people were already arriving to get seats for the two-and-a-half-hour mass.
“Although I am on duty today, I am grateful I can do both, pray and serve,” she added.
