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Holy Friday in Greece is one of the most Holiest days of the year, known as Megali Paraskevi.
T he Vespers of Good Friday are sung and the Apocalypse of the Crucified takes place.
Zakynthos has its own unique way of celebrating this day.
Centuries-old traditions are still being kept alive and respected by younger generations in Zakynthos.
If you haven’t already noticed the church bells haven’t been ringing over the last few days, today however the bells, especially in the village areas, will strike the traditional ‘Penthos’ mourning sound.
Throughout the town you may see traditional black flags called ‘Pefki’ hanging from the balconies and windows.
Traditions have it that even today the usual everyday chores are stopped, at the dinner table no one is seated and no tablecloth is placed.
From dawn today, Good Friday, Saint Dionysios is placed in his throne where he will stay until Easter Monday.
The church prepares for the epitaph. A morning service sees the Crucified placed in the centre of the church. The priest reading the bible will re-enact those days leading Christ to his tomb.
As you can see in the video, He is slowly brought down from the cross and placed in a white sheet. The priests will then carry him to the Alter where readings will be held. After they bring the body of Christ in litany and He is carried in a procession three times within the church walls.
At the end of the service He is placed in his tomb and rose petals are placed around Him.
This year the faithful are not allowed to visit their churches, but the spirit of Easter is very much alive. The candle of hope still burns bright even behind closed doors.
