Apac, Uganda: The Parish Priest of Apac Catholic Parish, Rev. Fr. John Baptist Aligi, has called on Christians to embrace forgiveness, patience, and humility as they begin the solemn journey of Holy Week.
Delivering his message during Palm Sunday Mass at Christ the Redeemer Church in Apac Town, Fr. Aligi addressed a congregation that filled the church to capacity, urging believers to reflect deeply on their spiritual lives.
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, commemorating the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. But Fr. Aligi reminded the faithful that the celebration carries a deeper message.
“The same voices that shouted ‘Hosanna’ would later call for His crucifixion,” he said. “This reminds us how quickly human loyalty can change and why our faith must remain firm and genuine.”
Fr. Aligi emphasized that Christ’s life remains the ultimate example of forgiveness and sacrifice. “Even in His suffering, He chose mercy over revenge, and that is the path we are called to follow,” he said.
He challenged Christians to let go of resentment and embrace compassion. “If Christ forgave those who persecuted Him, then we too must learn to forgive those who hurt us. Holding onto anger only distances us from God.”
Addressing believers who feel discouraged in their faith, Fr. Aligi urged patience and trust in God’s timing. “Some people pray and wait, yet they feel as though God is silent. But God never abandons His people,” he said.
He stressed that Holy Week should not be treated as a routine religious observance but as a time for genuine transformation. “This is a moment for self-examination, reconciliation, and renewal,” he added.
Meaning behind the palms
Fr. Aligi also explained the symbolism of palm branches distributed during the Mass, noting that they represent both joy and sacrifice.
“These palms are not just symbols of celebration. They remind us of both joy and sacrifice and will later become the ashes used on Ash Wednesday, calling us back to repentance.”
As Christians journey toward Good Friday and Easter Sunday, the priest encouraged acts of kindness and deeper spiritual commitment.
“Let this Holy Week be different. Let it be a time when we choose patience over anger, kindness over division, and faith over fear.”
He concluded by linking personal faith to broader societal harmony. “When we embrace forgiveness and mercy in our hearts, we build stronger families, stronger communities, and a more peaceful nation.”
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