Report by: Dale D’Souza
Photos by: Shanald Furtado
Palm Sunday, the gateway to Holy Week, was celebrated with deep spiritual fervor and devotion at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, on April 13, 2025. The day marks Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where He was welcomed by crowds waving palm branches and proclaiming, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” This solemn and joyful occasion was observed with a large gathering of parishioners who came together to relive this significant event in the life of Christ.
The celebration began with the blessing of the palms, symbolizing peace and victory. Faithful young and old gathered outside the cathedral, holding palm fronds as the celebrant, Dr Fr Jencil Alva, invoked blessings over them. Following this, a prayerful procession took place around the church premises, echoing the atmosphere of Jerusalem on the first Palm Sunday. Hymns of praise and devotion filled the air as the congregation walked in unity and reverence.
The Holy Eucharist was then celebrated with great solemnity. The main celebrant for the Mass was Dr Fr Jencil Alva, who was joined by Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves and Fr Pradeep Cardoza. The presence of all three priests added to the grace and significance of the occasion. In his sermon, Dr Fr Jencil Alva delivered a powerful reflection on the themes of humility, obedience, and sacrifice, drawing from the Passion narrative. He urged the faithful to contemplate Christ’s journey to the cross and to embrace the values of compassion, forgiveness, and unwavering faith as they move through Holy Week.
The cathedral was adorned with palms and natural decor that reflected the beauty and sacredness of the day. The choir enriched the liturgical celebration with melodious hymns that lifted the hearts of the congregation and deepened their participation in the liturgy.
The celebration of Palm Sunday at Milagres Cathedral served as a profound spiritual experience and a meaningful preparation for the Holy Triduum. It reminded everyone of Christ’s kingship rooted not in power, but in love and service. As the faithful now turn their hearts toward the remembrance of the Last Supper, the Passion, and ultimately the Resurrection, the celebration of Palm Sunday stands as a beacon of hope and renewal.
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