Joining the rest of the faithful, a large turnout of Catholic faithful from St. Francis de Sales (SFS) Parish, Kohima Town, has celebrated Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem with a solemn procession and Eucharistic celebration in the state capital.
The procession began at the Old MLA Hostel, where believers gathered and received blessed palm leaves. The congregation then proceeded to the Capital Convention Centre for the Mass, chanting prayers and singing hymns during the solemn procession.
Parish priest Rev. Fr. Mathew Mhabemo led the Eucharistic celebration.
Delivering the homily, Fr. Peter highlighted Jesus’ humble entry into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of His mission to serve. He said Jesus established God’s kingdom through love, not power.
Fr. Peter reminded the faithful of Jesus’ victory over sin and death on the cross, urging them to commit to His mission. He noted how the crowd later turned against Jesus—like Judas who betrayed Him, the soldiers who crucified Him, and even those closest to Him who rejected Him.
He stressed the importance of serving others with love, adding, “To lead is to serve. Be faithful and look to Him.”
Earlier, Visazhünuo Carmila led the opening proceedings, Mulirhü Teresa read the First Reading (Isaiah 50:4–7), and Sweety Khrumo delivered the Second Reading (Philippians 2:6–11).
Fr. Mathew, along with Loreni Martha, Francis Phom, Piviholi, and Joel Kikon, took part in the Passion Narrative. Daivei led the Prayer of the Faithful, while the choir comprised youth members from different communities of the parish.
The celebration was followed by the Way of the Cross at Kohima Cathedral, marking the beginning of Holy Week.