The choir was so vibrant that everyone was motivated to participate in the liturgy. The Chaplain, MSMMC, Fr. Lino Morozonoto, MCCJ crowned the liturgical celebrations with the solemn Mass.
In a random survey, the following remarks were recorded about the Palm Sunday celebrations; “This was a memorable day, marking the entry into Holy Week,” “It was very exciting, well arranged and organized. It is my first celebration after joining the convent, it was a surprise; I didn’t know they could make it that way. I really enjoyed and appreciate the organizers,” an Aspirant remarked, “I loved the vibrant liturgy and participation of everyone,” “Every liturgy is unique but this year’s cerebration was great!” “The Palm Sunday was vivid and gives me the sensation of the entry into Jerusalem with Jesus. The shaking of the palm leaves in my point of view is shaking off my sins.”
While Fr. Lino in his homily reminded the community about common attitudes of indifference often exhibited similar to the one some of the Jews expressed towards Jesus; “Saviour save yourself, take care of yourself, free yourself.” Jesus the savior steadfastly offers Himself for others. He did not claim anything for himself but only defined himself. He asked pardon from the Father on behalf of those crucifying Him.
The Chaplain further urged members to emulate Jesus, who emptied Himself for others and did not on the contrary exploit them for selfish motives as it commonly happens! Jesus gives and forgives. Even when we cause self- inflicted suffering, God seeks for forgive us. Checkout if we have offered Jesus Gentle and compassionate gaze on the cross. Jesus calls us not to be reactive but proactive in the face of challenges of life.
He further challenged the congregation, “As missionaries you are called to carry out the mission of unconditional forgiveness. The Lord calls us not to act as everyone does. Not to give in order to receive, but be compassionate to all regardless of personality and status. Like Jesus we should embrace all with the desire to love and forgive. This ought to be lived and proclaimed in our daily life.”
Conclusively, he said, God does not get tired of forgiving but we can get tired of asking forgiveness. Let us not get tired of proclaiming this good news of Jesus the crucified. Jesus clearly becomes our advocate when He says Father forgive them for they do not know what they do. Ignorance is a clear reason for out sinning. We can also begin a new life with the good thief by going to the paradise with Jesus. “Today you will be with me in paradise.”
By Sr. Sylvia Ayikoru, MSMMC
