The Archdiocese of Cebu, through Archbishop Jose Palma on Tuesday, has urged the Catholic Faithful for self-reflection this Holy Week.
Palma related the biblical account of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem with 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 narrated.
He connected the cries of “Hosanna” by the people who welcomed Jesus with the subsequent demands for Jesus’ death, a shift in public sentiment.
He said that this mirrors how individuals themselves 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, it’s possible that times of trouble, darkness and various experiences come, like Saint Peter who received the privilege of being with Jesus on Tabor, but then abandoned him, denied him,” he added.
The Holy Week started 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 (washing of the feet). Good Friday will be solemn remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion and death, including a veneration of the cross and procession of the Santo Intierro.
There will be an Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, a significant liturgy marking the start of Easter with the Service of Light and readings anticipating the Resurrection.