Palm Sunday at Most Holy Redeemer Church, 2024

Palm Sunday signifies the start of Holy Week. The jubilant arrival of Jesus into Jerusalem on a donkey, greeted by the crowds shouting, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna! Hosanna!" serves as a reminder that this day encompasses both sorrow and celebration. The parishioners assembled at the church grounds at 7 am. Rev.Fr.Joseph Martis, the parish priest, blessed the palms, and the priests sprinkled holy water on all parishioners. The procession was led by the Incense, followed by the cross, thurible, and the altar boys. Following that, parishioners walked behind Rev. Fr Joseph Martis and Rev. Fr Kevin D'Souza, carrying palms as they proceeded to the church.
The Gospel reading for the day recounted the Passion of Christ.
In the homily, Fr Joseph Martis emphasized the significance of each day in the Holy Week briefly, urging everyone to engage in acts of kindness. He encouraged parishioners to:

1. Visit the church and reflect on the cross, empathizing with Jesus and carrying their own burdens.
2. Read the Passion of Christ in the Bible.
3. Stay close to the Lord during His trials.
4. Perform good deeds in the lives of others.
5. Practice forgiveness towards others.

The Children's choir delivered beautiful singing, enhancing the prayerful atmosphere of the mass. The priest and many attendees wore liturgical attire in the color red, adding to the solemnity of the occasion.

On the same evening, at 5 p.m. the parishioners assembled at the Church Grounds for a Way of the Cross. The members of the Parish Pastoral Commission led the Way of the Cross. The statues of Jesus bearing the cross and Sorrowful Mother were carried along during the Way of the Cross.

After the Way of the Cross, the parishioners assembled at the church for a short reflection. Rev.Fr.Maxim D'Souza, Parish Priest, Jeppu parish, delivered an insightful reflection on Christ's passion. He stressed the need for each one to gaze upon the cross, stand by its side and seek the Lord's assistance in times of suffering.

After the reflection, Fr.Joseph Martis thanked Fr.Maxim for his homily. He concluded with a short prayer.

As the choir sang hymns, the devotees honoured the statues, bringing the day's events to a close.

Report by: Preethi Pais
Pictures: Simon Pereira