Good Friday, Start Of Passover Observed On The Same Day

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A rare celebration. Good Friday and the start of Passover are being observed on the same day.

Tracey Leong explains the significance.

With these two traditions landing on the same day, it reminds Christians and Jews that their religions have more similarities than differences.

Good Friday services at the Baltimore Basilica. People fill in the church to remember the day Jesus was crucified.

"It's a sad day. But at the same time, it's a significant day in the history of Christianity. The day that Jesus sacrificed his life for our sins," said Ngozi Nweze, celebrating Good Friday.

Falling on the same day that Passover begins.

Inside the Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital, the start of the eight-day holiday to commemorate the Israelites' escape from slavery in Egypt more than 3,000 years ago.

"It's important to remember where you came from," said Rozzie Brilliant, celebrating Passover.

"Celebrate this wonderful festival of freedom," said Mariam Levi, celebrating Passover.

It's a significant day for both religions.

"Wonderful that it does because the two really do go together," said Monsignor Arthur Valenzano, rector of the Baltimore Basilica.

"Springtime is a reawakening of nature, and it's a reawakening of the spirit. That's the kinship of Jews and Christians celebrating these holidays," said Jeffrey Orkin, rabbi.

Showing these faiths' deeply embedded connections.

"The whole roots of Christianity comes from our Judeo roots. Abraham was our father in faith, so it helps people to appreciate there's not a disconnect, there's a very important relationship between the two religions," said Valenzano.

"Reminds me of how generous Jesus was, what he came to Earth to do for us and how he saved us from our sins," said Shack Stanwick, celebrating Good Friday.

And bringing families, friends and loved ones together.

"A tradition I guess in our family. It's a nice family tradition to have, and it's good to go down the road," said Liam Giblin, celebrating Good Friday.

"The whole world is included in our prayers tonight," said Levi.

"Brings people back to church, which we love," said Valenzano.

The last time Good Friday and the start of Passover landed on the same day was in 2012.

The next overlap will be in 2018.