Kochi, April 13: With palms held high and voices lifted in prayer, Christians across the world marked Palm Sunday today—an observance that commemorates the triumphant yet humble entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, a moment seen as the gateway to the sacred events of Holy Week.

From the ancient cobbled paths of Jerusalem to modern church courtyards in bustling cities and quiet villages alike, the day was embraced with a blend of joyful reverence and reflective solemnity. The symbolic palm branches, once laid before the Savior as He rode on a donkey, were waved once again by the faithful—a timeless expression of welcome and worship.

In Kerala, where Christianity has deep roots dating back to the apostolic era, churches of all denominations witnessed large gatherings for the traditional Palm Sunday processions. At St. Mary’s Basilica in Ernakulam, hundreds of believers assembled before sunrise, palm fronds in hand, to take part in the liturgical journey led by clergy dressed in ceremonial vestments.

Similar scenes played out across parishes in Thrissur, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta, where entire families walked together in processions, reciting prayers and hymns that echoed through the morning air. Many churches organized reenactments of the Gospel scene with children playing roles of Jerusalem’s townspeople, laying down cloths and palms.

In Jerusalem, thousands of international pilgrims gathered at the Mount of Olives, tracing the original path believed to have been taken by Jesus more than 2,000 years ago. The scene was marked by deep emotion, as worshippers carried both physical palms and heartfelt intentions in prayer.

In a growing movement toward environmental awareness, several dioceses opted for sustainable alternatives to traditional palms this year. In Kanjirappally, faithful were encouraged to bring potted plants, symbolizing not only faith but stewardship of creation. “It’s a meaningful way to celebrate life and respect the earth,” said parish volunteer Linu Joseph.

Many churches also distributed folded palm crosses, which families took home to place in prayer corners or weave into rosaries. “We don’t just carry the palm for a day,” said 78-year-old Rosa Mathew from Alappuzha. “It becomes a part of our spiritual journey throughout the year.”

Palm Sunday holds a deeper significance as it begins the final week of Lent, leading up to Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. The day is often described as a “paradox of praise,” as the crowd that hailed Jesus with “Hosanna” would soon call for His crucifixion—offering a profound lesson on human fickleness and divine forgiveness.

The Gospel readings of the day were drawn from the Passion narratives, and many churches incorporated choral renditions, dramatic readings, and meditative silence to reflect the shift from celebration to contemplation.

In many regions, including areas with travel or health restrictions, virtual services were streamed live, ensuring that the faithful could still participate. Social media platforms saw a surge in posts featuring palm-themed art, family altar decorations, and verses of hope. For pastors and priests, the day also marked an opportunity to encourage unity in a fractured world. “It reminds us that true leadership flows from humility and service.”

Across the globe, from Latin America to Africa to the Philippines, local customs added richness to the celebration—donkey processions, scripture dramas, and native hymns blended cultural color with spiritual meaning.

As the evening bells tolled and processions came to a close, the message of Palm Sunday remained etched in the hearts of believers: the King who enters quietly is the one who reigns eternally—not through might, but through mercy.

Hosanna Celebrations at Saint Joseph's Syro Malabar Parish, Perth

St Alphonsa Church, Kankanady, Mangalore

Palm Sunday Celebration at Mount Saint Thomas.

St Marys Church, Dubai, Syro-Malabar Catechism

Marthomma Parish, Kuwait City

In a heartfelt display of faith, hundreds of faithful gathered at the Marthoma Parish in Kuwait City to observe the Hosanna service, honoring the triumphant entry of Jesus, the Redeemer of the world, into the temple of Jerusalem.

Marakadavu Saint Joseph's Church

Fr. James Champakkara led the Palm Sunday procession from Sanjo Square to St. Joseph's Church, Marakkadavu, as part of the Oshana observances.