Christendom will mark Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion on April 2, the first day of the Holy Week.
Churchgoers will wave their palm fronds as the priest makes his way into the altar reminiscent of Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem astride a donkey on Palm Sunday.
As the faithful observe the holiest time of the year for Roman Catholics, archdioceses and dioceses have started to allow Holy Communion by mouth with the ease in Covid-19 restrictions.
At the Archdiocese of Cebu, Archbishop Jose Palma reminded priests and Eucharistic ministers to clearly say ‘the Body of Christ’ as they administer communion to the faithful.
“Although Holy Communion may now be given on the tongue, Holy Communion on the hand is still the safest and preferred way of receiving Holy Communion,” the archdiocese said in a circular.
The faithful are also enjoined to attend holy masses and to join church activities in their respective parishes as the holy week begins. Churchgoers are, however, reminded not to kiss the holy cross on Good Friday and just genuflect instead as a sign of respect.
The images of saints may also be touched or wiped after the processions on Holy Wednesday and on Good Friday, the circular added.
Archbishop Palma reminded the faithful to continue to observe safety protocols despite the return to pre-pandemic activities.
“The wearing of face mask is now optional. Pastors and church personnel are still encouraged to provide sanitation materials such as alcohol at the main door of the church,” the archdiocese said.
More churchgoers are expected to once again observe holy week traditions and activities this year after a two-year break because of the pandemic.
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2023