Large congregations gathered at Holy Cross Cathedral to commemorate the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, beginning the most sacred period in the Christian calendar.
Hundreds of worshippers gathered at Holy Cross Cathedral on Sunday to mark the start of Holy Week, an annual period of reflection that culminates in the Easter celebrations.
The service, led by Archbishop Christopher Cardone, saw Sunday school children lead processions through the cathedral grounds, waving palm branches and singing “Hosanna” in a re-enactment of the biblical entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
In his address to the congregation, Archbishop Cardone described the week as the most significant in the Church’s calendar, calling on believers to use the period to “deepen their spiritual lives” through prayer and community service.
“It is my prayer that we grow in holiness together as a family this week, that we learn from God’s Word, honour and love Him, and serve Him faithfully,” the Archbishop said.
The sunday church service included the traditional blessing of palms, symbols of peace and victory, marking the transition from the 40-day fast of Lent to the “Easter Triduum,” which begins on Holy Thursday.
This year, the Holy Week observances precede Good Friday on 3 April and Easter Sunday on 5 April. Archbishop Cardone encouraged Christians across the Solomon Islands to spend the coming days strengthening their faith through acts of compassion and a renewed commitment to one another.
By Steven Kamoa
