Christians observe Palm Sunday tomorrow, March 28 | Religion

Christians in Ghana will join others around the world in celebrating Palm Sunday tomorrow, March 28, in commemoration of Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, days before his crucifixion.

Also known as Passion Sunday, the day is the last Sunday in Lent and the start of Holy Week in the Christian calendar.

It is known as Palm Sunday because worshipers often use palm leaves for the reenactment of Christ’s arrival in Jerusalem.

In the Gospel, Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey and was greeted by the inhabitants of the city with songs of praise, while some paid homage to him by throwing clothes and palm branches on the ground so that they could he can walk.

This year’s celebration will likely take place discreetly without a street procession, which characterized the event, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Before the festivities, the Christian Council had asked Christians to mark the day by strictly respecting security protocols.

“Strictly follow safety protocols, especially wearing a nasal mask, social distancing and the use of hand sanitizers,” Council Chairman Reverend Dr Paul Kwabena Boafo said in an interview with the agency Ghanaian press.

The Ghana Police Service said its officers will enforce COVID-19 restrictions to the letter during the celebrations to prevent the spread of the virus.

He reminded religious groups that conventions, crusades, pilgrimages and large physical gatherings were not allowed.

The Service, in a press release, said carnivals, festivals, beach rallies, street dances, processions and parades, among others, were illegal.

Meanwhile, some churches have started to publicize the celebration through mainstream media and outdoor advertisements.