The thirteenth day of April 2025 was a special one to Christians especially those of the Catholic faith as they marked the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem commonly known as Palm Sunday.
Normally, Palm Sunday, characterized by palm leaves, marks the end of the 40-day Lenten Season and the beginning of the Holy Week. During this time, Christians commemorate the final week of Jesus’ life, culminating into his passion and resurrection
In Kenya, all the Dioceses and the Archdioceses were filled with pomp and color as Christians hit the streets, matching and singing to commemorate one of the most important days in the Catholic calendar. The clergy donned red vestments to symbolize the blood Jesus shed during his crucifixion.
Nyahururu Catholic Bishop Joseph Mbatia, in his Palm Sunday homily, called on Kenyans to spend the Holy Week in reflecting and praying for the country for peace to reign. He also urged Kenyan leaders to address people’s grievances including hinderances to development.
“Let us pray that our country will have good leadership so that each of us will be happy and our country will prosper,” Bishop Mbatia said.
Fr. James Obaigwa from Kebirigo parish in Kisii Catholic Diocese, echoed Mbatia’s statements urging leaders to stop divisive politics. “This is a time when Christ brings reconciliation so that our leaders can understand each other and that we can move forward. May the death and resurrection of Christ bring good.”
At the Vatican, thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s square to celebrate Palm Sunday. Mass was presided over by Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, who is the vice dean of the College of Cardinals.
To the surprise of many, Pope Francis made an impromptu appearance towards the end of the mass greeting and blessing pilgrims. In a shaky voice the Pope said, “Happy Palm Sunday and beginning of Holy Week!”
The 88-year-old Pontiff has been recuperating at the Vatican after suffering a serious burst of double pneumonia which led to him spending almost 40 days in hospital.
Despite His inability to celebrate mass, the Holy Father had special message for Christians all over the world. He urged them to prepare to maneuver through obstacles with hope of getting eternal life upon the resurrection of Christ.
“Today we have followed Jesus, first in a festive procession and then along a path of pain and sorrow, as we enter upon this Holy Week of preparation for the commemoration of the Lord’s passion, death and resurrection,” Pope Francis shared on His socials.
He added: “Jesus’ passion becomes compassion whenever we hold out our hand to those who feel they cannot go on, when we lift up those who have fallen, when we embrace those who are discouraged.”
During the Holy Week, concentrate on reaffirming their faith, strengthening their relationship with God and others, and considering Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection.
