Palm Sunday observed with fervour

Christians across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts on Sunday observed the Palm Sunday, commemorating the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, ahead of his crucifixion and resurrection, marking the beginning of the Holy Week.

Devotees were seen flocking to their respective churches to mark the occasion. While Mangaluru diocesan Bishop Rev Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza concelebrated the holy mass at Rosario Cathedral, Udupi diocesan Bishop Rev Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo celebrated the Palm Sunday Service at the Mother of Sorrows Church in Udupi.

The faithful congregated in churches of various Christian denominations across the district and took out processions carrying palm leaves, symbolising the reception given to Jesus when he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. Holding the blessed palm fronds in their hands, the devotees, irrespective of age, also took out processions in villages and towns. The faithful people will observe fast and hold special prayers in this week until Easter Sunday on April 1, marking Christ's resurrection after crucifixion on March 30, the Good Friday.