DENPASAR – The Good Friday commemoration on Friday (April 3, 2026) was observed with solemnity and order across various churches in Denpasar. At the Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd Denpasar, thousands of Catholic faithful gathered from the early hours of the service.
The church, located in the Ubung area, became a focal point of worship as parishioners came together in deep reverence to remember the Passion and death of Jesus Christ on the cross.
This year’s celebration held special significance for the Parish of Jesus the Good Shepherd, as it marked its first Easter celebration following its official establishment as a new parish, separated from St. Joseph Parish Denpasar. The milestone added a deeper sense of spirituality and community for those in attendance.
During the Good Friday liturgy, the faithful participated in a series of sacred rites, including the Veneration of the Cross, which culminates in the kissing of the cross as a powerful symbol of faith, sacrifice, and the love of Jesus Christ for humanity.
The Mass was led by Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Yohanes Nyoman Madia Adnyana, SVD, commonly known as Fr. Yan, together with Assistant Priest Rev. Fr. Gregorius Loudowick Lengga Wangge, SVD.
In his homily, Fr. Yan delivered a profound message, encouraging the faithful to interpret life’s challenges as “crosses” that must be carried with faith and humility.
“In life, we often face small crosses—whether through slander, betrayal, or various trials. Yet, like Jesus, we are called to surrender everything to God and continue trusting in His love,” he said.
He emphasized that while human beings may abandon one another, God never abandons His people. This message, he noted, is aligned with the Book of Isaiah, which affirms that God’s love never forgets His children.
“Can a mother forget her nursing child? Even if she may forget, God will never forget us. This is the foundation of our faith,” he added.
Fr. Yan further encouraged the congregation to follow the example of Jesus’ faithfulness to both God and humanity, even unto His death on the cross.
“Good Friday is a powerful testimony of God’s love for us—a sign that He never abandons His people. Therefore, we should be proud of the cross and proud to be followers of Christ,” he stressed.
Through the reflection on Christ’s Passion, the faithful are expected to find renewed strength to live with firm faith, living hope, and active love in their daily lives.
The Good Friday service at the Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd Denpasar concluded in an orderly, peaceful, and meaningful atmosphere, reflecting the deep devotion of the faithful as they prepare for Easter. **
