Christians usher in Holy Week with Palm Sunday observances

Apr 02, 2012 News

Christians yesterday began the most solemn and important week in their calendar, Holy Week. The week commences on what is traditionally called Palm Sunday, which is one of the most important days in the Christian calendar after Christmas and Easter.
Palm Sunday is the Sunday before Easter, and marks the beginning of the week of events leading up to the day when Jesus’ death is commemorated.
During the week Christians around the world recall the very important events and last days of the earthly life of Jesus Christ.
In Guyana yesterday several Palm Sunday processions were held across the country as Christians re- enacted Jesus’ triumphant entry into the city of Jerusalem.
The participants waved palm branches, while singing and walking through the streets.
In Georgetown, Catholics gathered at the Bourda Cricket Ground for the Palm Sunday Service, which was preceded by a procession through parts of the city.

Catholics in New Amsterdam lift their palm branches to be blessed by Monsignor Terrence Montrose on Palm Sunday

In New Amsterdam, the Anglicans gathered under the New Amsterdam Town Arch for the blessing of the palms. They proceeded through Main Street, into Church Street, thence into Trinity Street and to the All Saints Anglican Church.
The Roman Catholics had their palms blessed by Monsignor Rev Terrence Montrose on the Catholic lawns at Pope Street.
Other important celebrations in this coming week include the Holy Thursday services that involve the washing of the feet of persons.
This again is a re-enactment of how Jesus washed the feet of his disciples.
The week’s events also include Good Friday service, the most holy day of the year for Christians, where the death of Jesus is remembered. Churches usually hold three-hour services and have special customs on that day, including the veneration of the crucifix.
Cross buns, one of the main delicacies that many persons will enjoy is also a very important part of Holy Week.
The week comes to an end on Holy Saturday night when new members of the church will be baptised and received at special late-night Masses which are held to usher in the most joyous season for Christians, Easter Sunday.