Palm Sunday is commemorated annually on the Sunday preceding Easter. This year’s event occurs on April 9. It is the first day of Holy Week, also known as the final week of Lent, and it commemorates Christ’s entrance into Jerusalem in triumph. During Palm Sunday liturgies, churches distribute palm branches to congregations as a symbol of the palm branches strewn before Christ by the people of Jerusalem upon his entry into the city.
The background of Orthodox Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday is one of the most jubilant holidays celebrated by the Orthodox Church each year. The celebration functions as a reminder and way to commemorate Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem. It is also a chance to tell stories about Jesus, his life, his voyage to Jerusalem, and the city’s reception of him.
The inhabitants of Jerusalem learned of the miracles Jesus had performed approximately 2,000 years ago. So, when he arrived on a juvenile donkey at the city’s entrance, they honoured him by shouting praises and spreading palm branches before him. Thus, the day that Jesus entered Jerusalem became known as “Palm Sunday.” To honour Christ on the holiday, palm branches adorn churches and Christian residences. People honour the holiday with joy, but with the knowledge that sorrow is imminent.
In addition, masses are conducted to teach about the works of Jesus. People are educated on his accomplishments on Earth, the miracles he performed, and the Easter narrative. Easter commemorates Christ’s crucifixion, burial, resurrection, and transformation into a real martyr. As a commemoration of and tribute to Christ’s sacrifices, it has been observed annually around the globe.
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5 FACTS ABOUT ORTHODOX PALM SUNDAY
Palm Sunday in the Orthodox Church is also known as Passion Sunday and Branch Sunday.
The holiday marks the beginning of the final week of Lent.
Palm Sunday is a day of calm and remembrance in the Orthodox faith.
The colour crimson represents the occasion.
Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem to demonstrate his benign intentions.
ORTHODOX PALM SUNDAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2022 | April 17 | Sunday |
2023 | April 9 | Sunday |
2024 | April 28 | Sunday |
2025 | April 13 | Sunday |
2026 | April 5 | Sunday |