Nagapattinam (TN), April 17: Easter celebrations began today at the famous 17th century Shrine Basillica at Vailankanni in the district with the ‘Palm Sunday’ procession.
The celebration will end with Easter on April 24. The week is celebrated by Christians as ‘holy week’.
Legend has it that when Jesus came to Jerusalem on the Sunday preceding his crucifixion, he was hailed as a King and people spread palm branches along his path. ‘Palm Sunday’, a week before Easter, recalls this incident and initiates the Holy Week.
The ‘Palm Sunday’ procession today saw priests carrying palm leaves and children bearing crosses made of single palm leaves. Holy songs were sung and special prayers were also held on the occasion.
Throughout the Holy Week, pilgrims, including Hindus from all over the state visit the church and on arrival get their heads tonsured as a ritual of thanksgiving.
-Agencies