Crucifixion, by Rembrandt, 1631
We worship your cross, O Lord, and we praise and glorify your holy resurrection, for the wood of the cross has brought joy to the world (Antiphon 3: Morning Prayer for Good Friday)
Johnny Cash with the Carter Sisters sing our Good Friday traditio, "Were You There When They Crucified My Lord."
Today marks a rare convergence, the Solemnity of the Annunciation (9 months to the day before Christmas) and Good Friday. Of course, the Roman Catholic Church this year transferred our observance of the Annunciation from 25 March to Monday, 4 April. Rather than de-conflict these days, a very modern and rational thing to do, I think it would be good to let them collide. I wonder
Rembrandt Sketch of the Annunciation, ca. 1635
This convergence also happened back in 1608, I don't know how many times between then and now. It prompted John Donne to write a poem - "Upon the Annunciation and Passion Falling upon One Day. 1608"
This Church, by letting these daies joyne, hath shown
Death and conception in mankinde is one
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