People begin counting the seven-week period between Passover and the holiday of Shavuot. Wesak, anniversary of Buddha's birthday. Known as the Flower Festival in the Pure Land tradition of Japan. Hindu Hanuman Jayanti. Celebrates the birth of Hanuman, the monkey that became Rama's companion.
People offer a special chant and sweets to Hanuman.
Catholic Palm Sunday Mass celebrated by Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua. Peter and Paul, 18th Street and the Parkway. Thursday, April 12 Roman Catholic, Protestant, Lutheran, Episcopal Holy Thursday, or Maundy Thursday. Recalls Jesus' last meal, arrest and detention. Decorations are removed or covered in many churches and bells silenced until Easter.