Processions with devotees singing hosanna mark Palm Sunday

Indore: Christians across the city observed Palm Sunday with prayers, processions and special services. It marked the beginning of Holy Week. In Catholic churches, palm branches were blessed with holy water before devotees carried them in processions and attended Mass. At the Red Church, the service was led by Bishop Thomas Mathew along with priests.In his message, the Bishop urged people to rise above hatred, jealousy and divisions, and live with love and trust. "The world still struggles with the same evils that existed during the time of Jesus. We must seek freedom from them through faith," he said.At Presbyterian Church Masih Mandir, the service began with hymns and choir singing, followed by a sermon recalling the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Children presented a short play depicting the scene, while devotees later took out a procession carrying palm leaves and singing hosanna (a cry expressing an appeal for God's help)."For us, Palm Sunday is not just a ritual. It reminds us to welcome peace and humility into our lives," a devotee Shiba Anthony said. Another devotee said,"These traditions guide us to reflect and prepare for the days leading to Good Friday."Churches across the city will continue special prayers through the week, including Maundy Thursday and Good Friday observances.