Joining the rest of the faithful, a mammoth turnout of Catholic faithful from St. Francis de Sales (SFS) Parish Kohima Town, celebrated Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem with a solemn procession and Eucharistic celebration in the state capital city.

The procession began at Old MLA Hostel, where believers gathered and received blessed palm leaves.

The congregation then proceeded to Capital Cultural Hall for Mass, chanting prayers and singing hymns during the solemn procession.

Parish priest Rev. Fr. Mathew Mhabemo led the subsequent Eucharistic service.

Delivering the homily, Fr Peter highlighted Jesus’ humble entry into Jerusalem, marking the start of His mission to serve. He said Jesus established God’s kingdom with 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. The priest noted how the crowd turned against Jesus – like Judas who betrayed Christ, the soldiers who crucified Him, and the people who rejected Him, including those closest to Him.

Fr Peter stressed 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 gave the Second Reading (Philippians 2:6-11).

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Fr Mathew along with Loreni Martha, Francis Phom, Piviholi, and Joel Kikon, took part in the Passion Narrative. Daivei administered the Prayer of the Faithful. The choir consisted of youth members from different communities of the parish.

The celebration followed the Way of the Cross at Kohima Cathedral, kicking off Holy Week.