The faithful gathered in quiet reverence at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Quezon City for the solemn observance of Palm Sunday—a deeply significant tradition that marks the beginning of Holy Week in the Catholic Church. Clutching woven palm fronds, the crowd filled the shrine’s grounds, waiting for the blessing of their palaspas, symbols of both praise and sacrifice.

Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where crowds welcomed Him with palms and hosannas, unaware that the Passion was soon to follow. This contrast between joy and sorrow sets the tone for Holy Week—a time for deep contemplation, prayer, and repentance.

The procession was a moving display of devotion. Priests led by Rev. Fr. Uldarico “Ding” Camus, OFM Cap., Rector and Parish Priest of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, along with altar servers and lay ministers, led the way. They were followed by hundreds of devotees who walked in silence or in prayer, each step a reflection of their faith and connection to the journey of Christ toward His suffering and eventual resurrection.

The National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, known for its Marian devotion and solemn liturgies, provides a sacred space for this annual observance. Amid the incense and hymns, hearts were lifted—not just in tradition, but in faith renewed.

As Holy Week unfolds, the Palm Sunday procession serves as a poignant reminder: the path to Easter glory begins with the cross.