Christians In Md. Observing Good Friday

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Across the world and here in Maryland, millions of Christians are observing Good Friday.

Gigi Barnett has more on the prayers for peace in the wake of the attack in Brussels.

Good Friday is the day Christians around the world and in Baltimore believe Jesus was crucified. It symbolizes his sacrifice for the salvation of mankind. Now, it's their turn.

Hundreds of parishioners gathered at the Baltimore Basilica for a special Good Friday mass.

"It's that invitation from the Lord to go and assist others and help others," said Catholic Sister Maria Luz Ortiz.

That's one reason why many attend Good Friday services--to ask for mercy for the homeless and helpless. Others say they come asking for peace--a chance to pray for victims in tragic events, like the recent bombing in Brussels.

"We need peace so we can have something good to talk about. It's crazy in this world," said Kirk Gaddy, parishioner.

"Especially at this time, bombings everywhere. I think this is really the time where people all come together," said Julz Quesada, parishioner.

Quesada knows about the sacrifices made for the holiday She and her family traveled to Baltimore from Stanford, Connecticut to visit seven different churches. They will attend Good Friday services at all of them.

Their reason for visiting Baltimore? Seafood.

"On Good Friday, you're not supposed to eat meat. So then Baltimore, Maryland, known for their crabs... Might as well, right?" she said.

Services at the Baltimore Basilica actually started on Holy Thursday. They will continue all weekend long, culminating on Easter Sunday.

Why is it called Good Friday? One explanation says originally it was called "God's Friday." It was changed over the centuries to "Good Friday."