Filipino Catholics observe Palm Sunday

Filipino Catholics celebrate Palm Sunday by waving palm fronds during a Mass on April 1.<br/> <br />The traditional celebration is observed across the Catholic country to mark the first day of the Holy Week.<br/> <br />In Manila, thousands of worshippers attend a morning service at the Santo Domingo Church, as a Catholic priest blesses their palm fronds.<br/> <br />The blessing rite recalls the story of Jesus Christ's entrance to Jerusalem before his passion and crucifixion.<br/> <br />In Catholic belief, the waving of palms is a symbol of discipleship.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE)(Filipino) RECEPTIONIST MARIAN PORRAS SAYING:<br/> <br />"There really is a God. You can feel his presence, not only because it's Holy Week. Everyday can be Holy Week."<br/> <br />After the mass, devotees return home and hang their blessed fronds on their front doors and windows, as a sign of welcoming Christ into their homes.<br/> <br />Travis Brecher, Reuters