Community in South East Vella La Vella Islands Commemorates Christ’s Entry into Jerusalem with Reverence and Joy
By Alfred Pagepitu, Stringer/Reporter – Western/Choiseul Province
Maravari Zion United Church, in the South East Vella La Vella Islands of the Western Province, joined Christians around the world in celebrating Palm Sunday at their local church on Sunday morning.
The theme of the celebration was “Witnessing and Demonstrating the Power of Humility.”
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Jesus’ important journey to the Cross of Calvary, symbolizing God’s victorious mission to offer renewed life over eternal death to humanity.
Sunday School Superintendent Emmy Holton delivered the Palm Sunday message at Maravari Zion United Church during the Sunday morning service, where community members gathered to commemorate the occasion.
Mrs. Holton explained that Palm Sunday is celebrated annually to remember the events of more than 2,000 years ago when Jesus entered Jerusalem.
The church commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, with the Sunday school children reenacting the event and joyfully shouting, “Hosanna!Hosanna! Hosanna is the highest! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” Palm leaves and branches were also laid on the pathway for Jesus to ride on, in imitation of the original event.
“We, the Maravari Sunday School, are happy to be part of Palm Sunday.
“Today marks the entry of Christ on this day, and while it is a joyful occasion in Jerusalem, the cross always reminds us that Christ will undergo pain and suffering.
However, at the end of the week, He will be resurrected to life,” she said.
Mrs. Holton emphasised that Palm Sunday is an opportunity for various church communities to come together and reflect on the important message it holds for their lives. It prompts them to observe Jesus’ humble entry into Jerusalem, riding on a donkey instead of a horse or an expensive chariot.
“It is also a time for us to gather in prayer as we enter the final week, where we remember what Jesus had to endure for His love for the world,” she added.
Furthermore, Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, as traditionally observed by the United Church of Solomon Islands and other churches. This week includes various activities leading up to Good Friday, followed by the Easter celebration on Sunday.
In addition to Maravari Zion United Church, other churches within the South East Vella La Vella Island also participated in the Palm Sunday celebrations.
