Sunday, April 13, 2025
Palm Sunday is an important day in the Christian calendar, marking the beginning of Holy Week, which leads up to Easter Sunday.
It commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, when he was greeted by crowds waving palm branches and shouting “Hosanna!” in recognition of him as the Messiah.
Palm Sunday, also known as Passion Sunday, falls on March 24, 2024.
In many Christian traditions, the liturgical color for Palm Sunday is red or violet. However, some churches may also use white or gold as a liturgical color on this day.
Additionally, it is common for worshippers to wear something green on Palm Sunday, such as a green tie or scarf, to symbolize the palm branches that were laid in Jesus’ path during his entry into Jerusalem.
On Palm Sunday, many Christians attend special church services that include the blessing and distribution of palm branches, symbolizing the branches that were laid in Jesus’ path. During the service, there may be readings from the Gospels recounting the events of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, as well as hymns and prayers celebrating his kingship and salvation.
In some churches, the palm branches may be used to create decorative crosses or other symbols, which are then displayed in the church or taken home by worshippers. Some congregations may also participate in processions or parades, carrying palm branches and singing hymns.
Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday to fulfill a prophecy from the Old Testament.
The prophet Zechariah had foretold that the Messiah would enter Jerusalem riding on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9). By riding a donkey into the city, Jesus was fulfilling this prophecy and signaling to the people that he was the long-awaited Messiah.
Additionally, riding on a donkey was a symbol of peace, as opposed to riding on a horse which would symbolize war. By choosing a donkey, Jesus was demonstrating his humility and his message of peace.
As the first day of Holy Week, Palm Sunday always occurs on the Sunday before Easter—hence, why the date doesn’t remain consistent every year.
Palm Sunday recalls the story in Christian Scripture of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, greeted by people waving palm branches. It is a reminder for Christians to welcome Jesus into their hearts and to be willing to follow him.