General News of Sunday, 20 March 2005

Source: GNA

Christians celebrate Palm Sunday

Accra, March 20, GNA - Christians all over the world are celebrating Palm Sunday, an important event on the calendar of their faith. The day marks an event of about 2000 years ago when Jesus Christ made a triumphant entry into Jerusalem, his last before his crucifixion, death and resurrection.

In Ghana, the day was celebrated with processions of various churches through some principal streets with members waving palm branches, and handkerchiefs as well as the singing of "Hosanna, Hosanna Jesus reba".

The Reverend Fitzgerald Odonkor, Head Pastor of Harvest Chapel International told the Ghana News Agency that the church is fully engaged in a holistic ministry that would continually seek to address many of the socio-economic and political problems facing the people. "The church is ever determined to make every effort at evangelising to meet the needs and challenges of the people". He identified some of the problems facing people as injustices against the poor in society, domestic violence against women, economic problems and the HIV/AIDS menace and called on churches to react positively to national issues.

On the significance of the Palm Sunday, Rev Odonkor said the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem gives Christians hope to seek God's Kingdom.

He said Christ on that day showed that those who want to enter the Kingdom must be humble, obedient and compassionate. The colt Christ rode on symbolised service, humility and peace, adding that those who want to follow the footsteps of Christ must be selfless, ready to take up the cross and avoid evil. Rev Gabriel Ansah who preached the sermon urged Christians to exhibit Christ in their daily works. 20 March 05