Markus Makur, East Manggari – Christians in East Nusa Tenggara celebrated Palm Sunday in their own homes following the government's instructions to avoid social gatherings in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.
In Borong, three priests from St. Gregorius Church went around the city to bless parishioners holding palm leaves in front of their homes.
Sofia Linung was among those who stood outside to receive a blessing with her husband and three children.
"The Palm Sunday celebration this year was pretty sad as we couldn't gather with other parishioners at the church," Sofia told The Jakarta Post. "We just prayed at home, as did other churchgoers. We don't know when it will be over."
Maria Daflora Echo from Kota Komba of East Manggarai regency also felt dejected as she could not celebrate Palm Sunday with her husband and children at church.
"We are praying at home for our nation, nurses and doctors as we struggle with the COVID-19 outbreak," she told the Post on Sunday.
The Archdiocese of Ruteng previously advised 82 parish priests in the archdiocese to encourage parishioners to worship from home, warning against celebrating Palm Sunday, Holy Week and Easter Sunday at church. (trn)