The liturgies of Palm Sunday begin with the celebration of the Lord’s triumphal messianic entry into Jerusalem to the acclaim of crowds shouting “Hosanna!” We gather in the courtyard to hear the proclamation of the Gospel account of this event. Palms are blessed and distributed, followed by a procession into the church.
Palms are an ancient symbol of victory and Catholics often display the palms, received this Sunday, on a crucifix in their homes. The Hebrew word hosanna means “(O Lord) grant salvation” but it has become an acclamation of jubilation and welcome.
Once inside the church, the focus shifts to Jesus’ suffering and death as we hear the proclamation of his Passion from the Gospel of Luke this year. We celebrate the Eucharist with Jesus’ words and actions at the Last Supper still echoing in our minds and hearts.
Palms are an ancient symbol of victory and Catholics often display the palms, received this Sunday, on a crucifix in their homes. The Hebrew word hosanna means “(O Lord) grant salvation” but it has become an acclamation of jubilation and welcome.
Once inside the church, the focus shifts to Jesus’ suffering and death as we hear the proclamation of his Passion from the Gospel of Luke this year. We celebrate the Eucharist with Jesus’ words and actions at the Last Supper still echoing in our minds and hearts.
