Good Friday Burial Service To Be Held At East Meadow Orthodox Church
Services feature large image of Jesus Christ to be placed in the middle of church on Friday, April 22

East Meadow, NY – A large image portraying the burial of Jesus Christ will be placed in the middle of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church here as part of Good Friday services beginning at 2:30 pm today. Considered the most solemn day on the Christian calendar, Good Friday commemorates the death and burial of Jesus Christ.

During today’s Good Friday service, readings will recount the Old Testament prophecies and New Testament accounts relating to the crucifixion and burial of Christ. Near the end, a procession will begin in the altar featuring a large icon (or image) of the burial, which will be placed in a tomb-like setting, surrounded by dozens of flowers, beneath a large cross.

“Today is a very sad day for Orthodox Christians,” said Father Martin Kraus, rector of Holy Trinity Church, “We come face to face with the reality that Jesus Christ died to free each of us from our sins, suffering, and even death.”

But the sadness of today’s service also includes foreshadowing of the Easter celebration which will begin at midnight on Saturday, April 23. “The account of the crucifixion doesn’t end with the death of Christ,” Father Martin said, adding, “We know the story continues and believe that Jesus Christ arose from the tomb, washing away our suffering and giving us life.”

Today’s service will conclude with those in attendance approaching the image and bowing before it in veneration. Some members of the parish will keep vigil in the church until midnight on Saturday when the Easter celebration begins. Others will return home for rest and preparations for the next service.

“We have a lot of services at church this time of year,” said Andrea Diamantis of Queens, “While it makes for a lot of driving, we find the services so spiritually enriching and reassuring as they proclaim what we believe as Orthodox Christians.”

Father Martin expects attendance to be strong for the active parish, with attendees coming from across Long Island and the boroughs, “People in our community understand the importance of these holy days, and they will come together to remember the death of Jesus Christ with great love and respect.”

Photos from Great and Holy Friday

Complete schedule of events