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FROM HOSANNA TO THE CROSS: PALM SUNDAY OF THE LORD’S PASSION AT QUIAPO CHURCH

Apr. 06, 2026 06:02 PM

March 29, 2026 | Manila, Philippines. The Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, also known to millions of devotees as Quiapo Church, solemnly opened its Holy Week observances with the celebration of Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion.

The liturgy was celebrated in two distinct parts, beginning with the reenactment of Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem an event that marks the start of His Passion. Led by Rev. Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan, the celebration commenced with the proclamation of the Gospel along Carriedo Street. This was followed by a solemn procession passing through Plaza Miranda and culminating inside the church, symbolizing Jesus’ humble yet majestic entrance into Jerusalem.

The procession gathered a diverse representation of the faith community, including selected Apostles from various ministries and communities, as well as civic participants such as members of the Philippine National Police, barangay officials, the Hijos del Nazareno, persons with disabilities (PWDs), the Parish Youth Ministry, devotional groups, and the Social Communications Ministry. Together, they bore witness to a living tradition of faith deeply rooted in Filipino spirituality.

The second part of the liturgy centered on the proclamation of the Passion Narrative. In his homily, Fr. Jade reflected on the human tendency to become fearful and uncertain about the future. He contrasted this with Christ’s unwavering trust in the will of God, reminding the faithful that, even in life’s uncertainties, God’s word must remain above all.

He emphasized that while people often feel they have “no choice,” the truth is that we are always given the freedom to choose, whether to do good or to act in ways that harm ourselves and others. The faithful were encouraged to remain steadfast in hope and trust in Jesus Christ.

Fr. Jade also reflected on the symbolism of the donkey in the Gospel narrative. Often misunderstood as weak or insignificant, the donkey instead represents humility, patience, and thoughtful action, qualities that stand in contrast to impulsive strength symbolized by a war horse. He urged the faithful to embody this quiet strength: to think, discern, and act with compassion and wisdom.

Reflecting further on the Passion, he noted the changing nature of the human heart, how people can shift from goodness to wrongdoing, and from sin to redemption. Yet, he reminded everyone that the story of Jesus does not end in suffering and death. It reaches its fulfillment in the Resurrection, a promise of new life, renewal, and hope.

As the Church enters Holy Week, the faithful are invited to carry these lessons into their own lives: to embrace transformation, deepen their faith, and strive to become better versions of themselves.

Before imparting the final blessing, Fr. Jade left the community with a heartfelt reminder: to use the Holy Week not for distraction, but for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal. Vacations and leisure can wait, he said but this sacred time is an opportunity to pause, reconnect with God, and prepare for a renewed life in Christ.

 

As the journey of Holy Week begins, may this Palm Sunday serve not only as a remembrance of Christ’s Passion, but as a call to personal conversion. In every prayer, sacrifice, and moment of reflection, may we draw closer to the heart of Jesus, so that, come Easter morning, we too may rise renewed, restored, and ready to live a life of faith, hope, and love.

 

 

 

                                  Gerald Molo | SOCOM Quiapo Article Writer Coordinator