Palm Sunday: A Tale of Triumph, Betrayal At Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The atmosphere at the Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral was electric on Sunday, April 13, 2025, as worshippers gathered to commemorate Palm Sunday, the day marking Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
In his homily “The King who chooses the Cross as His Throne,” Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, urged Christians to reflect on the true meaning of discipleship.
The celebration began with waving of palms a symbol of victory, recalling the shouts of “Hosanna!” that greeted Jesus.
Yet, as Archbishop Kaigama reminded the congregation, those same lips would soon cry “Crucify Him!”
“Jesus did not ride into Jerusalem for a celebration,” the Archbishop said. “He entered knowing He was walking into betrayal, pain, and death but chose humility over grandeur, sacrifice over status.”
Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s current socio-political climate, Archbishop Kaigama warned leaders both political and religious against chasing popularity over purpose. “Our people cheer their leaders in victory, but with hunger and insecurity, that applause quickly turns into anger,” he said.
Archbishop Kaigama called on leaders to emulate Christ’s humility and sacrificial love. “If you are not ready to give your time and life for the people, then don’t let them sing your praises,” he cautioned.
The homily concluded with a prayerful charge to believers to embrace Holy Week as a journey not of comfort but of commitment, to live out the meaning of Christ’s Passion.
