Pics: Stanly Bantwal/Steephan Kayyar
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Mar 29: The Christian community in Dakshina Kannada and Kasargod ushered in the Holy Week with solemnity on Sunday, March 29, celebrating Palm Sunday to commemorate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
Devotees gathered at their respective parishes early in the morning for the blessing of palm fronds, followed by prayerful processions. The streets resounded with the singing of "Hosanna" as the faithful, carrying blessed palms, re-enacted the biblical event before entering the churches for the festive Eucharistic celebrations.
Our Lady of Miracles Church, Milagres
Christ The King Church, Kayyar
In various churches across the Mangaluru diocese including the Kasargod region, the liturgy highlighted the significance of the day as a bridge to the Passion of Christ. The blessing of the palms serves as a symbolic start to the most sacred period in the liturgical calendar, leading toward the Paschal Triduum.
The observance saw a massive turnout of the faithful, signaling a deep spiritual preparation for the upcoming services of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, which will eventually culminate in the joy of Easter Sunday.
Palm Sunday celebrations at various churches: