April 5, 2020 Palm Sunday

Passion (Palm) Sunday

Beginning an Unusual Holy Week

Msgr. Thomas Gervasio

Jesuit Father John Kavanaugh observed that today’s liturgy is “a collision of themes: glorious hosannas and somber omens.” The Lord’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem gives way to the hour when, in his infinite love for us, Jesus would suffer and die for our salvation.

As we enter Holy Week, this most unusual of Holy Weeks, let us allow this Mystery to speak to our anxious hearts during this time of the Coranavirus threat that has so profoundly affected our lives.

In following the Lord we are never far from the shadow of the cross. As we contemplate the extraordinary love the Lord has for us during this Holy Week, let us ask with the Psalmist, “What return can I make to the Lord for His goodness to me?”

As we set out with Jesus, as he begins his passion, let us open our ears to hear his invitation to take up our own crosses each day and follow him. May the Lord grant us the courage to face the challenges we encounter on the way, free from the paralysis of fear. Strengthened by God’s grace, may we help each other to our feet. May we be confident that walking with the Lord, we shall come to the fullness of life and joy, which is our hope and God’s great gift.

While circumstances throughout the world have made this a Holy Week unlike any other, let us through our spiritual union make it an extraordinarily prayerful one.