Faithful sing ‘Hosanna’ on Palm Sunday at city churches

Lucknow: Devotees gathered in different city churches for Palm Sunday. The Holy Week, culminating in Easter, began with Palm Sunday, which marks a day Christians take out processions carrying palm or olive branches to commemorate final entry of Lord Jesus before crucifixion.The churches were decorated with green-coloured curtains, lights, and balloons and devotees wore green attires. At Daliganj Church, special prayer was conducted with hymns such as ‘Hosanna to the Highest' and ‘Blessed is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord' sung by the choir. Priest in charge of the church, Parag Weasley, read out his message saying, "The world needs peace and comfort of Jesus Christ and to those who call His name, He brings joy, light and peace in their lives." Archana Lyall said, "Today, we exchange goodies and green eatables, so I made spinach pakodas and brought grapes."At the end, a feast took place in which grapes, green rice and cucumber were shared. Sarah Jones said, "Today is the day Jesus entered Jerusalem as a king before crucifixion and people welcomed Him wholeheartedly and with utmost joy. That joy is visible on people's faces today." Meanwhile, at All Saints Garrison Church, Gomtinagar, a traditional Palm Sunday procession was taken out on the church premises. A devotee, Ravi Singh, said, "I have come to the church with my family and prayed for peace and joy for my family."Holy cross made of palm leaves was handed to all followers in the procession. Children sang ‘Hosanna'. Presbyter in charge, Abhay Soans, delivered an inspiring sermon on the significance of Palm Sunday, reminding people of the humility, sacrifice and love exemplified by Jesus Christ. At Assembly of Believers Church, Aliganj, service hymns such as ‘Dekh tera raja aata hai' and ‘Dekho dekho koi aa raha hai, hum gaayen Hosanna' were sung by the choir and the message was read out by Pastor Morris Kumar, followed by refreshments.

Select The Times of India as your preferred source on Google Search.

Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays, public holidays, and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.