PHOTOS: Palm Sunday Procession in Holy Land Celebrates ‘Joy in Being Christians’

When many were missing, the individuals who were there didn't just pray with each other, they also shared a cheerful message that challenged the dark clouds hovering above the Holy City.

During Palm Sunday in Jerusalem, people from the Christian community took part in a customary procession to begin Holy Week. This procession includes carrying palm and olive branches, which is an important event for the Christian community residing in the Holy Land. The procession takes the same route that Jesus took on a donkey when he traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover.

The parade began at Bethphage, on the east of Mount of Olives. Then, the people climbed up the Mount of Olives, reaching the top and beholding one of the most magnificent view of Jerusalem. After that, they descended on the west side, going past the Dominus Flevit temple, where Jesus cried for Jerusalem, and the Gethsemane, where Jesus underwent the most difficult moments of his lifetime. Later on, they arrived at the Lion’s Gate and made their way inside the city. Eventually, they concluded their procession on the grounds of St. Anne's Basilica.

On March 24, 2024, a bunch of individuals participated in the Palm Sunday parade starting from Bethphage and ending at Jerusalem. They strolled along the top of the Mount of Olives, which offers a truly breathtaking view of Jerusalem. Credit goes to Marinella Bandini for capturing this stunning panorama.

Around 3,000 individuals showed up, which is significantly lower compared to previous years. As a consequence of the ongoing conflict, there were only a limited number of religious travelers. Christians hailing from Palestinian Territories were granted 2,000 licenses, albeit the short notification resulted in a considerable number being unable to make it to the Holy City. Nevertheless, some devout believers made it from Tel Aviv and the Galilee.

In light of the notable absences, those in attendance didn't just pray together but also spread happiness that disregarded the stormy clouds hovering above the Holy City. Similar to previous editions, the diverse groups participating brought the procession to life with melodies, vocals, and performances throughout the course. These acts were a way for them to show gratitude to God and to celebrate the happiness of being followers of the Christian faith.

On March 24, 2024, the Custody of the Holy Land's Franciscan friars sang and made music during the procession for Palm Sunday from Bethphage to Jerusalem. Different groups that were present added excitement to the parade by performing music, songs, and dances throughout the journey. They showed their appreciation to God and expressed their delight in being followers of Christ. Marinella Bandini deserves recognition for capturing the spectacular event.

As he made his way down the street, families and kids from the Muslim communities watched the happening. A few children stood on a climb and provided water to people who passed by. Once he reached the Lion's Gate, the leader was welcomed with a downpour of rice and little snacks, such as sweets and chocolates.

On March 24, 2024, the Palm Sunday parade from Bethphage to Jerusalem made its way into the city via the Lion's Gate. Marinella Bandini captured this momentous occasion on camera.

Despite our small number, it is significant that we have made a successful entrance. Although we face many challenges, we are delighted and grateful that Jesus is our ruler! He brings us happiness and is the source of our courage," expressed Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, who guided the march.

The Holy Land's custos, Father Francesco Patton, as well as Archbishop Adolfo Tito Yllana, the Apostolic Nuncio in Israel and apostolic delegate in Jerusalem and Palestine, were also in attendance.

The leader of the group made a special effort to honor the small society in Gaza, which is beloved by everyone. He spoke with great respect for them. Father Gabriel Romanelli was at the event too, but he usually stays in Jerusalem. He was emotional during the ceremony.

The Christian leader reassured the people of Gaza that they would never be left alone and promised to provide as much support as possible. He acknowledged that the current situation may feel overwhelming, but urged them not to fear. The patriarch assured the people that the darkness of the current night will eventually come to an end, and a new day of hope and peace will arise for everyone.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, who is the head of the Catholic Church in Jerusalem, and Father Francesco Patton, who is in charge of the Holy Land, walked side by side during the Palm Sunday parade on March 24, 2024. They followed the customary practice of leading the religious procession. Marinella Bandini took the photograph used to credit their participation.

As Holy Week commenced, the Cardinal made a statement to those in attendance as they said their goodbyes. He urged them to reaffirm their dedication to following Jesus and to not succumb to fear. He stressed that Jesus' triumph on the cross was not through weapons or violence, but rather through love.

On Sunday morning, the Palm Sunday liturgy was held at the Holy Sepulcher, led by Pizzaballa, before the procession from Bethphage to Jerusalem. The Mass started with the Palm procession where people waved palm branches and sang "Hosanna." They circled around the edicule of the Holy Sepulcher, which is a small shrine containing Jesus Christ's tomb, three times. This symbolized the three days that Jesus spent in the tomb. The Eucharistic celebration took place at the altar of Mary Magdalene because the area in front of the edicule was reserved for the Greek Orthodox. They were observing the "Sunday of Orthodoxy," which is the first Sunday of Lent.

The Palm Sunday ceremony occurred on March 24, 2024, in the Holy Sepulcher. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa led the service, and it took place at the shrine of Mary Magdalene. Marinella Bandini receives the credit.