Christians across Udupi and Dakshina Kannada 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 with palm leaves to mark the occasion.

Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo Bishop of Udupi Diocese celebrated the Palm Sunday Service at the Immaculate Heart Church Nakre near Karkala along with Parish Priest Fr Vincent Crasta.

Devotees participated in a procession taken out a part of Palm Sunday in Mangaluru.

Palm Sunday is the final Sunday in the Lenten season, signifying the beginning of Holy Week.

Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter and is held in remembrance of Jesus’ time in Jerusalem before he died and, according to Christianity, was resurrected.

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 will observe fast and hold special prayers in the next week until Easter Sunday on April 21, marking Christ’s resurrection after crucifixion on Good Friday, on April 19.