Tuesday, 31 March 2020

DO-IT-AT-HOME CELEBRATION OF THE HOLY WEEK (Palm Sunday)


Holy Week begins. We commemorate on this day the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem before He was crucified (Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-44 and John 12:12-19).

This is called Palm Sunday as the faithful use palm fronds in the reenactment of Christ’s entry in Jerusalem. Palm branch is a symbol of victory or triumph. If we reread the Gospels, there were those who threw clothes or cloaks in front of Jesus as a sign of homage. Thus, Jesus entered the city as a King who brings peace.

In line with this celebration, aside from holding some palm branches while the priests/bishops bless them (via TV, radio or internet), Catholics may prepare an outdoor standalone altar or assemble a simple altar outside their gate as a sign and expression of welcoming Jesus to their home. Praise songs too may be sung to welcome Jesus as a King of Peace. If there are no palm branches available, a red cloth may be hung on the front door or gate. For those who have Facebook or any other social networking sites, they may use it to welcome Jesus as a King of Peace. They may also post their own collection of photos or videos during the past years’ celebration of Palm Sunday.

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