Cebu Archbishop Palma calls for self-reflection this Holy Week 

The Archdiocese of Cebu, through Archbishop Jose Palma, on Tuesday urged the Catholic faithful to engage in self-reflection this Holy Week.

Palma related the biblical account of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem to one's personal spiritual journey.

"There were times that we, too, in some ways, are like those people who, at one point, might have sung praises to God, and yet at other times left God, insulted Him, became His enemy. This is because of our abandonment, because of our sins, because of our actions," Palma said.

He connected the cries of "Hosanna" by the people who welcomed Jesus with the subsequent demands for His death—a shift in public sentiment.

He said this shift mirrors how individuals can experience fluctuations in their devotion.

"This is the division of sentiments, the change in the dispositions of the people—joyfully welcoming Him, and then in anger, some still shouting for His crucifixion," Palma stressed.

"If we reflect, all of us possibly have the same story in our lives. At one point, we are joyfully thanking God and longing for His grace and salvation. But in life’s journey, times of trouble, darkness, and various experiences may come—like Saint Peter, who received the privilege of being with Jesus on Tabor but later abandoned and denied Him," he added.

Holy Week began with Palm Sunday and will continue with activities including Masses and confessions from Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday.

On Maundy Thursday, there will be a Mass of the Last Supper, including the washing of the feet. Good Friday will be a solemn remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion and death, with the veneration of the cross and the procession of the Santo Entierro.

An Easter Vigil will be held on Holy Saturday—a significant liturgy marking the start of Easter with the Service of Light and readings anticipating the Resurrection.

Holy Week concludes with the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ resurrection.