GOOD Friday is a significant day in the Christian calendar: it marks the crucifixion of Jesus and His death at Calvary. This holiday is celebrated on the Friday before the much anticipated Easter Monday when families and friends gather in green spaces to picnic, relax and fly kites.

In Guyana, Good Friday is one of those holidays when most businesses are closed and more persons get to enjoy an extra day at home.
Given this country’s multicultural makeup and citizens’ tendency to adopt each other’s traditions, almost everyone in one way or the other participates in this annual observance.
While the day is supposed to be one of fasting, prayer and reflection, Christians and non-Christians alike fuss over hot cross buns.

In the days leading up to Good Friday, supermarkets are filled with eager shoppers looking for the best prices for mixed fruits, raisins, currants and the other necessary ingredients that are sure to give their buns a signature taste.

Many families participate in a hot cross buns contest with each member trying to outdo the others by baking the best hot cross buns. In some families, everyone follows the family recipe or the baking is done under the strict guidance of the eldest family member.

Others who may be too busy at work, may not be natural bakers or just need a break from the kitchen, opt to purchase from a bakery, supermarket, the neighbourhood snackette or someone who is known for baking the delicious treat.

At some places, the lines are long and persons may visit multiple locations to get a single bun, so that they can taste and determine which one has the best version.

Some people like plenty fruits and some people like only a little. Some people like a soft, fluffy texture and some may want it more compact. The amount of spices used is also the determining factor for some, while some people look at the general appearance and the positioning of the cross.

In the days before Good Friday, the critics are out in their numbers. Some even take to social media to suggest recommendations and to offer advice.

The trick though, is to decide what you want to do early. Doing this will lessen the chances of disappointment and ensure that on the actual day and in keeping with the tradition, you enjoy a warm cross bun with a slice of cheese for breakfast. Some people love it so much, that they eat it for lunch and dinner too, or they start the eating days prior.

The bun itself holds a lot of significance. It marks the end of the Christian season of Lent. According to the available literature, the cross that is placed at the top of the bun marks the crucifixion of Jesus.

As we consume this delicious sweet bun on this holy day, let us not forget its significance. Let us remember the solemnness of the day, as well as the need to respect each other’s religious beliefs.