Bangalore Archdiocese

By Fr Franklin Dsouza

Shivamogga, April 14 : Palm Sunday was celebrated at Sacred Heart Cathedral on April 13, 2025. At 8:45 a.m., the Palm Sunday celebration began with the Introductory Rites and the Blessing of Palms near the community hall. Most Reverend Dr. Francis Serrao, Bishop of Shimoga, was the main celebrant, along with other concelebrants: Msgr. Stany D'Souza, Fr. Venil D'Silva, Fr. Sunil Rodrigues, O.C.D., and Fr. Paul Anand Prasad, S.J.

Following the blessing, a solemn procession commemorated the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The bishop led the procession to the church, accompanied by the priests and the faithful, all carrying blessed palms. Songs of praise were sung by the congregation, evoking the spirit of Jesus' original procession.

The Holy Mass then continued. Fr Paul Anand, S.J., preached a homily reflecting on the significance of Palm Sunday and the Passion of Christ.

The celebration was marked by devotion, reverence, and active participation from the faithful, making it a spiritually enriching start to Holy Week. Rector Very Rev. Fr Stany D'Souza thanked Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ and the faithful.