Palm Sunday services held in Michiana

 

GRANGER, Ind. – Churches around the world hosted special services Sunday in commemoration of Palm Sunday.

The day marks the start of holy week for the majority of Catholic and Christian denominations.

Palm Sunday's roots date back to when Christians believe that Jesus Christ rode a donkey into Jerusalem and the people laid palm branches in his path, an ancient Jewish symbol of triumph.

Deacon Harry Verhiley with St. Pius X Church in Granger says that crowds of parishioners will continue to grow as the week goes along.

"Masses are full, completely full. Palm Sunday is well-attended, in fact, all of the holy week and up through Easter is very crowded." said Deacon Verhiley.

The first Palm Sunday celebrations date back to 4th century Jerusalem, although the ceremonies in their current form weren't adopted into Western Christianity until the 9th century.

"Palm Sunday is a reflection on Jesus entering into the city of Jerusalem the week before he experienced his passion, his death, his resurrection. We commemorate that, coming into Jerusalem, just as he did, when he rode in on a donkey and people laid out palm branches for him." said Deacon Verhiley.

St. Pius X Church fully expects mass services to remain filled throughout the rest of holy week.