Christians observe ‘Palm Sunday’ in Udupi
Udupi: Christians across the Udupi district observed Palm Sunday on April 14 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.
Palm Sunday is the final Sunday in the Lenten season, signifying the beginning of the Holy Week. The Holy Week is the week leading 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, devotees irrespective of age 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 April 19, the Good Friday.