Palm Sunday

Today, Palm Sunday, we welcome Jesus, into our hearts and homes.

A great crowd who had come to the feast

heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem.

So they took branches of palm trees

and went out to meet him, crying,

‘Hosanna!

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

Blessed is the king of Israel.’

(John 12:12-13)

To Jesus, the True Light, who illumines the darkness and brings us hope during difficult times.

Hosanna to the Son of David!

To Jesus, the Great Healer, who cares for the sick with tenderness and mercy, showing love to heal body, mind, and spirit.

Hosanna to the Son of David!

To Jesus who died so that we might rise to new life.

Hosanna to the Son of David!

Let us offer our prayers to Christ the Lord, with open hearts.

For all families and communities, who are finding life difficult at this time. May they know the tenderness and compassion of Christ in the words and actions of those around them.

For all who care for those suffering from Covid-19. May the Lord be their strength and guide.

For essential workers, may they experience respect and kindness from all they encounter.

For our own needs this day.

For all who have died in the past year, and for all deceased relatives and friends: May they rest and rise in Christ.

Lord hear our prayers.

Loving God, we praise you in a special way today as we celebrate Palm Sunday. Be with us as we begin our journey through Holy Week. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Image: Africa Magazine, April 2014, Palm Sunday in Mtengowanthenga, Malawi. Photo taken by Fr Pat Byrne SPS