Palm Sunday in the Gulf

Bishop Sean was very pleased to be with the St Christopher’s Cathedral congregation on Palm Sunday and to preach and preside at the Eucharist.

The well-attended service was followed by a reception at the Deanery—an opportunity to come together in fellowship and solidarity at a time of conflict. ‎

(From Christ Church Jebel Ali, Manisha Cornelius and Frances Suurd reflect on Palm Sunday services in the Emirate–stories follow photos)

Manisha Cornelius writes:

A joyful and prayerful Palm Sunday morning service at Christ Church Jebel Ali began on a beautiful note with Sunday School children singing “Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the Highest”, led by the talented Asha Maben. As the procession began, their sweet voices echoed through the church, adding a special warmth and joy to the celebration.

The procession moved through a congregation of more than 300 worshippers waving palm leaves and singing, filling the space with devotion and uplifting energy.

In his sermon, Father Jim reflected on the deeper meaning of the day, reminding us that Palm Sunday holds together both celebration and suffering. “Everyone loves a parade,” he noted, “but almost immediately, celebration collides with sorrow… the same voices that shout ‘Hosanna’ will soon cry ‘Crucify him.’”

He spoke of Jesus as a different kind of King—one who enters not with power or domination, but with humility, walking into suffering with love. Palm Sunday, he reminded us, is not only a celebration but also an invitation to follow Christ, even when the path is difficult.

As we enter Holy Week, we do so with hope, trusting that the journey through the cross leads to the joy of resurrection—and that the final word is not despair, but “Alleluia.”

Above: Palm Sunday morning service, Christ Church Jebel Ali

Below: Palm Sunday Choral Evensong, Christ Church Jebel Ali

Frances Suurd, Worship Music Leader at Christ Church Jebel Ali, writes

Our Choral Evensong service on Palm Sunday was a truly beautiful and contemplative gathering, shaped by the rich Anglican tradition in which scripture, prayer and music are woven together in a deeply reflective act of worship. In the quiet beauty of the liturgy, the congregation found space for stillness—an especially meaningful gift in a world marked by ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

For the more than 60 people gathered, the service offered a moment of peace, unity, and shared prayer at a time when such moments feel increasingly precious.

Under the thoughtful musical direction of Rob Johnston and accompanied by the exceptional artistry of Paul Griffiths, a dedicated choir of volunteers led the worship with great sensitivity and devotion. Their offering of psalms, canticles and anthem brought depth and colour to the liturgy, helping draw those present into a place of profound spiritual reflection.

We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to gather in this way and for the sense of peace, beauty and togetherness that filled our church. Choral Evensong continues to be a cherished expression of Anglican spirituality—an invitation to pause, to listen and to encounter God in the stillness.

Our Musicians

Paul Griffiths, a gifted organist and musician, brought his remarkable expertise to the service. A licentiate of the Royal Academy of Music and an associate of the Royal College of Music, Paul has held senior positions within the Royal College of Organists, including Chairman of the Executive Committee and later Vice President. His musical contributions across Dubai are widely recognised, from accompanying the RSCM Voices South Choir and Dubai Chamber Choir to his work with the Dubai Singers. In January 2024 he became Chairman of the Board of Governors of Dubai College—and, in his “spare” time, he serves as CEO of Dubai International Airport.

Rob Johnston, Musical Director of Nabra Chamber Choir, Manager of the BBC Singers, and Director of RSVP VOICES, brings decades of professional choral experience to his work with us. He has conducted at venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and Dubai Opera, judged major music competitions including COBIS and Young Musician of the Gulf, and his choirs have recorded soundtracks for Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, and Napoleon. His leadership of our Evensong choir helped lift the entire service to a truly memorable level.

To watch the service, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pc79_UnJGuc