Christians Observe Palm Sunday with Devotion Across Dakshina Kannada

Christians Observe Palm Sunday with Devotion Across Dakshina Kannada

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, March 29, 2026: Christians across Dakshina Kannada district observed Palm Sunday with devotion, commemorating the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem and marking the beginning of Holy Week.

At Holy Spirit Church, Mukka, under the Surathkal deanery, Bishop of Mangaluru Diocese Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha led the main Mass. He blessed palm leaves and led a procession with the faithful, symbolising Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Parish priest Fr. Stany Pinto and ICYM Mangaluru Director Fr. Praveen D’Souza were present.

In his sermon, Bishop Saldanha said Palm Sunday is not merely a ritual but an invitation to accompany Jesus in his journey of sacrifice. He said the palm leaves signify the faithful’s readiness to welcome Christ into their hearts.

Palm Sunday is observed based on the belief that people welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem by laying palm branches along his path a week before his crucifixion. In coastal regions, tender coconut leaves are commonly used for the observance.

The day marks the start of Holy Week, leading up to Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter.

Special prayers and processions were held at churches across Mangaluru and Udupi dioceses, including Rosario, Milagres, Ladyhill, Ashok Nagar, Bijai, Infant Jesus Shrine at Bikkarnakatte, and Kulur.