Hosanna in the Bomb Shelter

Families have been living here for over a month, creating a small, makeshift community with temporary tents for nightly safety, a subterranean village where daily life continues under extraordinary circumstances.

Children, families, and pastoral staff gathered around simple palm and olive branches, preserving the liturgical tradition even in these altered surroundings. As the children raised their voices in the acclamation "Hosanna," their prayer became a poignant call for salvation, hope, and peace in the midst of uncertainty.

A small procession within the shelter became a symbol of walking together in faith. Each step and prayer affirmed that liturgical life continues, even in confinement, and that the light of Christ cannot be overcome by fear or conflict.

Fr. Piotr Zelazko, Patriarchal Vicar of St. James Vicariate: "From the shelter’s darkness, Palm Sunday brings its light. Where missiles drive us down, the Palms lift us up." He added: "Thank you to all who got in touch with us after authorities prevented Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from entering the Holy Sepulcher this Palm Sunday, to all who called, and texted, all who published in social media. Your words and your presence mean a lot."

This Palm Sunday stands as a witness to hope and continuity in Holy Week: faith endures, sustained by community, memory, and trust. The St. James Vicariate continues its mission to accompany children, youth, and families, reflecting Christ’s call that peacemakers are blessed and are called children of God (Matthew 5:9), even amid the uncertainty of the days ahead.

Watch on Facebook: HERE.

Watch on YouTube: HERE.