SOLEMNITY OF PALM SUNDAY (YEAR A) AT SAINT MARTIN'S DE PORRES CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL, KATSINA DIOCESE
3/29/2026
The Holy Mass commenced at exactly 6:00am with the faithful gathered at the pavilion for the blessing of palms by the Chief Celebrant, Rev. Fr. Mathias Bakoshi (Cathedral Administrator), alongside Rev. Fr. Damian Zomahaun. The Gospel for the blessing of palms was proclaimed from the Holy Scriptures.
In a brief homily outside, the Chief Celebrant encouraged the faithful to journey with Christ throughout this Holy Week so as to rise with Him on Easter Sunday. He prayed that, in this sacred journey, all worries and anxieties may be washed away
The faithful then processed into the church, led by the cross bearer, followed by the choir who beautifully rendered the hymn “Ride On in Majesty.” They were followed by the altar knights, lectors, catechists, and the concelebrating priests. The Mass continued inside the church with the Liturgy of the Word.
LITURGY OF THE WORD
The catechist prepared the minds of the faithful for the readings of the day.
The First Reading was taken from the Book of Isaiah (50:4–7)
The Responsorial Psalm was from Psalm 22:8–9, 17–18a, 19–20, 23–24 (R. 2a):
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
The Second Reading was from the Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians (2:6–11)
The Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew was proclaimed by the Chief Celebrant, Rev. Fr. Mathias Bakoshi.
In his homily, he reminded the faithful that Holy Week is a time of commitment, preparation, and renewal. He urged all to journey with Christ, especially during the Sacred Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday).
He emphasized that Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem was for our salvation, yet the same people who once sought His help later mocked Him. Holy Week, therefore, is a season of self-evaluation:
Have we represented Christ well in our workplaces, businesses, and homes?
He called on the faithful to reflect on areas where they may have betrayed others through gossip, condemnation, or ingratitude. He encouraged everyone to die with Christ to sin and rise with Him in glory on Easter Sunday. He prayed for the grace to let go of the past and to receive God’s mercy, peace, and love.
The Creed was recited, followed by the Prayer of the Faithful.
A mini send-forth ceremony was held for Catechist Joshua Samaila, who has served the cathedral faithfully for 14 years. The congregation expressed deep appreciation and love, wishing him success in his new mission. The Divine Mercy Society presented him with a certificate of honour. Additionally, March celebrants marked their birthday thanksgiving.
LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
During the offertory, the choir rendered the hymn “Take and Sanctify” as the faithful prepared for the Eucharistic sacrifice.
Holy Communion was devoutly received by the faithful, accompanied by the hymn “God of Mercy and Compassion.”
The congregation also showed support for the choir towards the acquisition of new cathedral robes.
HOLY WEEK ACTIVITIES
Sunday: Service of Hymns by 5:00pm
Tuesday: Chrism Mass by 10:00am (No morning Mass)
Wednesday: Stations of the Cross and Mass
Holy Thursday: Mass by 7:00pm (No morning Mass)
Good Friday: Passion Play (CYON) by 1:30pm; Service by 3:00pm
Holy Saturday: Easter Vigil by 7:00pm (Come with a candle)
Easter Sunday: Three Masses
Easter Monday: One Mass by 7:00am (No evening Mass)
Confessions: From Thursday by 8:00am
Catechist Joshua Samaila expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the church for their support throughout his years of service.
The Cathedral Administrator thanked the faithful for their generous support towards the success of the Cathedraticum and encouraged full participation in all Holy Week activities, especially the Lenten Service of Hymns.
The Mass concluded at 8:13am.
