“Russia's Orthodox Church, too, has justified Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a 'holy war' against a Western world it considers has fallen into evil.”

“Palm Sunday marks Jesus' triumphant entrance into Jerusalem in the time leading up to his crucifixion, which Christians observe on Good Friday, and resurrection on Easter Sunday.”

“In a special blessing at the end of Mass, Pope Leo said he was praying especially for Christians in the Middle East who are 'suffering the consequences of an atrocious conflict. In many cases, they cannot live the rites of these holy days.'”

“Earlier Sunday, the Latin Patriarchate said Jerusalem police prevented the Catholic church's top leadership from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It was the first time in centuries that church leaders were prevented from celebrating Palm Sunday at the place where Christians believe Jesus was crucified, the Patriarchate said.”

“Pope Leo said that during Holy Week, Christians cannot forget how many people around the world are suffering as Christ did. 'Their trials appeal to the conscience of all. Let us raise our prayers to the Prince of Peace so that he may support people wounded by war and open concrete paths of reconciliation and peace,' Pope Leo said.”

“A Holy Week that recalls Pope Francis' suffering”

“When Holy Week opened last year, Pope Francis was still recovering at the Vatican after a five-week hospital stay for double pneumonia. He had delegated the liturgical celebrations to others, but rallied on Easter Sunday to greet the faithful from the loggia of St. Peter's Square. Most poignantly, he then made what became his final popemobile loop around the piazza.”