The Cathedral community prayerfully observed the Way of the Cross, a cherished devotion in the Catholic Church, led by Deacon John Matunda and the Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr. Ephraim Mulenga Mupulanga. The Way of the Cross, also known as the Stations of the Cross, is a spiritual journey that commemorates the passion and suffering of Jesus Christ on His way to Calvary. It consists of fourteen stations, each representing a significant moment from Jesus being condemned to death, carrying His cross, falling under its weight, meeting His mother, and ultimately His crucifixion and burial. This devotion invites the faithful to reflect deeply on Christ’s sacrifice, meditate on His suffering, and unite their own struggles with His. It is especially significant during the Lenten season, as it helps believers grow in repentance, humility, and love for God. The prayerful procession at the Cathedral was marked by solemn reflection and participation from the faithful, who moved from station to station in reverence, meditating on the passion of Christ.

On Good Friday, after the Stations of the Cross, the faithful proceeded to the Good Friday Service, which was celebrated by Ndola Archbishop, Dr. Benjamin Phiri, at Divine Mercy Parish. He was warmly welcomed by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. William Sinkala. The Good Friday Service is one of the most solemn liturgies in the Catholic Church. Unlike the usual Mass, there is no consecration of the Eucharist on this day. Instead, the service focuses on the Passion of Christ and consists of three main parts: the Liturgy of the Word, the Veneration of the Cross, and Holy Communion (using hosts consecrated on Holy Thursday). During the Liturgy of the Word, the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ is proclaimed, inviting the faithful to reflect deeply on His suffering and death for the salvation of humanity. A central moment of the service is the Veneration of the Cross. During this rite, the cross is presented to the faithful, who come forward one by one to show reverence often by kneeling, touching, or kissing it. This act is not worship of the wood itself, but a profound expression of love, gratitude, and reverence for Christ, who sacrificed His life on the cross. In his homily, Archbishop Phiri emphasized that all the rites observed during this sacred season are meant to help believers realize and understand the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice and the immense love that God has for humanity. He encouraged the faithful to reflect deeply on this love and respond with genuine conversion. At the end of the service, a quiet recession (procession) was observed. In silence, the ministers departed, and the faithful left the church in a spirit of reflection and solemnity. This silence signifies mourning for the death of Christ and invites personal meditation on His sacrifice.