Roman Catholics observe today the first Friday of Lent, traditionally considered with the next six Fridays until April 19, Good Friday, as a Day of Sacrifice and penance in preparation for the solemn observance of the Holy Week, which begins on April 14, Palm Sunday.
As a Day of Sacrifice and in line with the penitential character of Lent, many will try to abstain from meat on all seven Fridays of the 40-day Lenten observance as a form of penitence. The Lenten season liturgically began last March 6, Ash Wednesday.
Today and on all Fridays of Lent, many traditionally pray the Stations or Way of the Cross (Via Crucis), which recalls the Passion of Christ, the events preceding His crucifixion, death, and resurrection.
The faithful are also encouraged to go to confession, to perform works of mercy, to support the Church’s Fast2Feed program, self-denial and penance, and visit the adoration chapel aside from the customary practices done during Lent such as prayer, alms-giving, personal sacrifices, and missionary work. (Christina I. Hermoso)
