Top photo: Parishioners hold their newly blessed palm fraunds high at the start of the March 28 Palm Sunday Mass celebrated in St. Anthony of Padua Church, Hightstown. Mike Ehrmann photo
For Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., Holy Week 2026 began with the celebration of Mass for Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord in St. Anthony of Padua Church, Hightstown.
PHOTO GALLERY: Bishop celebrates Palm Sunday with Hightstown community
Bishop O’Connell was principal celebrant and homilist of the March 28 Vigil Mass. He was joined at the altar by Father Oscar Sumanga, pastor, and Father Arian Wharff, parochial vicar.
Commemorating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the Mass began in the back of the church where palms were blessed by the Bishop.
“In his homily, Bishop O’Connell said, “Today, we arrive with the Lord Jesus near Jerusalem, the ancient city where scripture reminds us the prophets go to die. He travels, as usual with his disciples whom he instructs to go into the city to prepare the Passover meal for them. As Jesus enters the city, he is greeted by crowd wildly cheering him. This visit to Jerusalem – Jesus’ last – which has become for Christians, “Holy Week” is a week of “crowds.”
Check back on TrentonMonitor.com for Holy Week coverage of events taking place in parishes around the Diocese.