I'm a Londoner, and so by default, was raised in the Church of England's faith. Sunday school and daily hymns were a part of growing up, as was the belief that Jesus is the friend of all little children. Growing up a little more, I learned that Jesus wasn't actually born on December 25th, and Easter overlays an older tradition of paganism.
But for me, Good Friday remains a day of quiet contemplation of all those who make sacrifices, small and large, that enrich our lives. Even after death.