Nagpur: Christians across the city stepped into the most solemn period of their calendar as ‘Palm Sunday’ rallies and services marked the start of ‘Holy Week’, a seven-day observance that culminates in Easter on April 5.At All Saints Cathedral, a rally was held under the leadership of presbyter-in-charge Rev Paranjyothi Sandela and Rev Yashwant Khobragade, with worshippers carrying palm fronds in a procession that retraces one of the central events of the Christian faith. The Catholic community gathered at SFS Cathedral for a ‘Palm Sunday’ service led by Archbishop Elias Gonsalves. Special prayers, scripture readings, and hymns formed the core of both services.‘Palm Sunday’ marks the day Christians believe Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem to a jubilant welcome from crowds who laid palm branches on the road before him — a gesture of honour reserved for kings. The image of a triumphant entry is deliberately contrasted with what follows in the days ahead, making it the point at which the week’s tone shifts from celebration to solemnity.‘Holy Week’ is the annual retelling, in liturgy and prayer, of the final days of Jesus Christ before his crucifixion and resurrection — the emotional and spiritual core of the Christian faith. The week proceeds through a set sequence of days, each carrying its own observance.Maundy Thursday, on April 2, commemorates the ‘Last Supper’ — the final meal Jesus shared with his disciples — and the act of washing their feet, which Christians interpret as a lesson in humility and service. Churches across denominations hold special services, some through the night.Good Friday, on April 3, is an austere day of the Christian year. Churches hold services marking the crucifixion of Jesus, with prayer, fasting, and quiet reflection.Holy Saturday, April 4, is a day of waiting and stillness. Many churches hold a vigil through the night — the longest liturgical service of the year — as congregations await the moment of resurrection.
