Daijiworld Media Network – Israel (VA)

Israel, Apr 5: Palm Sunday was celebrated at St Anthony Catholic Parish, Jaffa, here with much faith and devotion on March 28.

With olive leaves in hands, led by Fr Praveen D’Souza OFM, Fr Alwyn D’Souza OFM and Fr Abraham D’Souza SVD the devotees made a procession and and thus began the Holy week. As many as 400 faithful were gathered on the day.

On April 1, the Holy Thursday was celebrated with great fervour and faith, at the parish school. 450 faithful gathered together to celebrate the Lord’s Supper and the Washing of the feet, led by Fr Alwyn D’Souza OFM and Fr Praveen D’Souza OFM. There was also celebration in Herziliya presided over by Fr Abraham SVD where 200 people were gathered.

Good Friday was observed in the Kidron Valley, Jerusalem on April 2. It was first of its kind in Israel. The place itself was very significant and very holy in the Bible. It is a place where Pope Benedict XVI,  had celebrated  Mass on his visit to Israel. Frs Praveen, Alwyn, Abraham, Endre and Jayaseelan were the celebrants of the most important Liturgy. The Way of the Cross was held in the valley and Passion of the Lord was celebrated with great faith and love. Nearly 1000 faithful had gathered and it was a testimony to faith and unity. The Franciscan Friars, the Custodians of the holy Land were very generous to provide the place and support the cause of our Konkani speaking people in Israel.

The Paschal Vigil, the Mystery of our Faith, was celebrated in the parish school ground on Saturday April 3. It was led by Fr Praveen OFM, Fr Alwyn OFM and Jayaseelan OFM. Almost 1300 faithful had gathetred on the occasion. There was also a celebration in Herziliya led by Fr Abraham SVD where nearly 500 faithful had gathered to celebrate the Easter Mystery.