The Orthodox Church today commemorates the most tragic event in the history of Christianity - the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Great and Holy Friday is observed as a strict fast, and adult Christians are expected to abstain from all food and drink the entire day to the extent that their health permits.

Priest Eugen Onicov, of Saint Panthelemon Church in Chisinau, has told IPN that no liturgical service is held in churches today. On this day they take the Holy Air out, as the people say. This means the burying of Christ and the requiem for God.

The Church urges the people to cover the road of Cross together with God and to pray for this sacrifice not to be in vain, but to have an effect on our souls. We can obtain this by prayer and penitence, said the priest.

Great Friday in the Passion Week is also known as Holy Friday, Black Friday, or Easter Friday.