Mary Akurut
Christians gathered in large numbers at Nkumba University on April 13, 2025, to commemorate Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week. The Mass, led by Fr. Norman Nsereko and Fr. Herman Mukasa Zziwa, called on believers to embrace the message of love, humility, and sacrifice.
Fr. Norman Nsereko drew inspiration from Philippians 2:11, reminding Christians to keep their eyes on Christ, even in suffering. “In our lives, there are so many problems,” he said, “but always look at Christ because he died for us.” He emphasized the virtue of humility, pointing to Jesus’ humble birth, and warned against losing hope amid hardships.
The significance of Palm Sunday was also highlighted, with Fr. Norman narrating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where people sang hymns and waved palm branches. “They shouted in praise, but just a few days later, the same crowd cried for his crucifixion,” he said, encouraging believers to accept Christ’s message and the kingdom of God, even with trials and suffering.
Fr. Herman Zziwa, co-leading the Mass, offered prayers for the local community and emphasized the Caritas spirit of love and generosity towards the needy. “Today we celebrate Palm Sunday to commemorate Jesus’ triumphal entry to Jerusalem, marking the beginning of His suffering until He dies,” he said. He encouraged Christians to act with compassion, sharing their blessings with those less fortunate.
The congregation was also urged to confess their sins in preparation for Easter. Fr. Herman explained that the palms carried home were holy symbols, to be kept until Ash Wednesday, when they would be burned to make ashes for the next year’s Lenten season. “These palms are a sign of commitment to Christ,” he said.
Henry Masereka, the youth leader, expressed gratitude for the message of hope, calling on the youth to walk in the footsteps of Christ. Zziwa Agustin, chairperson of Nkumba Holy Catholic Chaplaincy, highlighted the importance of Palm Sunday, symbolizing eternal life received from Christ.
As the Christians left the mass with final blessings, many carried palm leaves and hearts full of renewed devotion. The message was clear: Palm Sunday is a call to live with love, humility, and resilience inspired by Christ’s sacrifice.
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