Derebail Parish Marks Palm Sunday with Solemn Mass and Way of the Cross Back

Derebail Parish Marks Palm Sunday with Solemn Mass and Way of the Cross

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, a time to remember the Lord’s Last Supper, Passion, and Resurrection.  

The parishioners of Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail, gathered for the Palm Sunday Mass on 13 April 2025, at 7 AM. The celebration began at the Holy Family School Grounds with a short prayer service and a Gospel Reading. The faithful received Blessed palms and walked in procession to the church, reenacting Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.

Rev. Fr. Rocky D’Cunha, Guardian and Provincial Infirmary Incharge of St. Anne’s Friary, was the main celebrant. In his homily, he reflected on the Passion of Christ and its deep meaning for those who trust in Him.  

The Children’s Choir added to the solemnity of the Mass with their melodious singing.  

Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis expressed his gratitude to Fr. Rocky D’Cunha for celebrating the Mass.  

The sight of palms in the hands of the faithful made the spirit of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem come alive in the church.

On the same day at 5 PM, parishioners gathered at the Holy Family School Grounds for a meaningful and elaborate Way of the Cross.  

During the service, statues of Jesus carrying the Cross and of the Sorrowful Mother Mary were carried to each station—by men and women respectively. After every station, the Parish Choir sang a hymn, adding depth to the prayerful atmosphere.  

At the end of the Way of the Cross, the faithful walked in procession to the church. The statues were solemnly brought in and placed on the altar.  

Rev. Fr. Santhosh Rodrigues, Director of the Pastoral Institute, Bajjodi, delivered a powerful and thought-provoking sermon. In the first part, he reflected on the sufferings of Jesus and their significance in His life. In the second part, he explored how Jesus' suffering gives meaning to our own lives.  

The service concluded with the devotees reverently kissing the statues of Jesus and Mother Mary.

Report by: Dr. Sharmila Furtado and Ms. Lynsha Lobo
Pictures: Roshan Fernandes /Sweedan Noronha (Evening pictures)