BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — It's a holy weekend in Western New York as churches prepare for one of the nation's most attended masses.
"Monday through Thursday, that's when Jesus has supper with his disciples including with his betrayer Judas," said Pastor Wilson of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. "Then Jesus was betrayed, arrested on Thursday. On Friday, is his actual crucifixion."
For others, Good Friday is an opportunity to spend time with loved ones during the holiday.
"Life is very precious, so if you have them enjoy them," said community member Kat Alexander. "Give yourself time to breathe and enjoy the day."
According to a recent report, church attendance has declined among most U.S. religious groups over the past two decades. Gerard Daniels, a 16-year-old church member, says some people don't attend mass because they don't feel welcomed.
"I think they don't come to the church because they really feel judged," said Daniels. "They feel uncomfortable when the church should be a place for them to be comfortable. It should be a safe place for them to cry out."
While fewer people are attending mass, some pastors believe this can still be changed.
"We believe that God is always doing a new thing. Now we're in a time of resurrection, so what will the new church be," asked Pastor Jeff Wilson of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. "What will the resurrected church do and what are we called to do in this new time? It can be scary that a lot of churches are closing, but this is a good time to be the church."
