One Spirit, Many Shores: Palm Sunday Observed Across the Province

Palm Sunday, the gateway into Holy Week, was celebrated with deep faith and vibrant community spirit across our diverse and beautiful province. From the islands of Vanuatu and the Solomons to the heartlands of Bougainville and Aotearoa-New Zealand, our Marist communities came together to commemorate Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem - each celebration reflecting the unique beauty, culture, and devotion of its people.

Here are some glimpses from around the Province.

Vanuatu

Palm Sunday in Vanuatu by the Marist family was observed at St Michel Parish in Luganville, Espiritu Santo. The celebration was marked by the moving voices of the students' choir, whose singing filled the church with reverence, joy, and a palpable sense of the sacred.

Their music created a prayerful atmosphere that truly ushered in the spirit of Holy Week, reminding all present of the humble yet powerful beginnings of Christ's Passion.

Solomon Islands

In the Solomon Islands, our Marist family at St Joseph’s School, Tenaru, gathered in faith and fellowship to mark this holy day. The school and wider community united in prayer and celebration, joyfully welcoming Holy Week and embracing its call to reflection, renewal, and grace. Also, the dramatic re-enactment of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey, by the participants captivated the congregation.

Mabiri, Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARoB)

At Mabiri Ministry, in the absence of a priest, the laity stepped forward with faith-filled hearts to lead the Palm Sunday service, reflecting the strength and resilience of the local church. Their leadership and commitment are a powerful testament to the spirit of synodality and shared mission in our communities.

Aotearoa – New Zealand

In Whirinaki, Palm Sunday was prayerfully celebrated at the local Catholic church, with Fr Kimi MSC from Fiji as the main celebrant.

The Mass brought together a multicultural congregation in joyful procession and worship.

As we journey together through this most sacred week, may the spirit of Palm Sunday continue to inspire us - to walk with Jesus in humility, to serve one another with love, and to carry forward the message of hope, peace, and resurrection in our own communities.

Thank you to Br Jean-Marie Batick (Vanuatu) Br Epalle Taega (Solomon Islands), Br Henry Uguni (Mabiri) and Br Samisoni Talia (Aotearoa-NZ) for the pictures.