By Katie Vasquez
It’s a sight that has graced Grand Army Plaza for years, dozens of Catholics taking to the streets of Prospect Heights to proclaim their faith during the Palm Sunday procession.
It’s become a staple for the Diocese of Brooklyn,and a symbol of the sacrifice yet to come.
“You know, the lord paid the ultimate price to conquer sin and death for us. He paid the ultimate price to set us free. so going and processing through the streets is what we can do, unafraid and unashamed of our witness of what the lord has done for us”, said Father Henry Torres, pastor of Mary of Nazareth Church.
Ahead of the march, Father Torres took us through the procession’s route, the faithful will travel down Vanderbilt avenue and end at the Co-Cathedral of St Joseph.
For the first time, NET-TV’s live coverage will include a host, Father Torres, to guide viewers through the feast day.
“As every year progresses, we like to think of new ways and innovative ways as to how we can bring the church and the faith closer to the viewers at home. Father Henry Torres was a great choice because he’s very charismatic and he’s able to like, you know, have people feel the true the true word,” said DeSales Media Group Production producer, Marilyn Arreaga.
Palm Sunday reenacts Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem more than 2,000 years, the service includes a blessing of palms like the ones used to greet Jesus.
“So the palms represent eternal life, represent royalty, represent triumph. So when Jesus enters Jerusalem on the donkey, he’s entering triumphant. This is the triumphant entrance of Christ,” said Father Torres.
Father Torres believes having the procession televised will be a bridge to guide those who have moved away from their faith.
“For people that are maybe going into despair, probably feel that, you know, there’s a lack of faith because of everything that’s going on. the chaos that we have been experiencing. If anything, this can also allow people to breathe, to realize that although we may we may be living in a chaotic world, whether in our personal life, in society, in our culture, that the lord has conquered,” said Father Torres.
And help Catholics as they prepare for the bigger celebration, Christ’s death and resurrection during Easter.