Passion Sunday, commonly referred to as Palm Sunday, begins the holiest week in the liturgical calendar. The Church’s celebration on this day is drawn from the Gospels’ description of Jesus’ welcome into Jerusalem prior to his passion. Palm trees, which are plentiful in the Mediterranean region, provided the people with large branches that were used for roofing, as fans, and to wave in honor of an important person. Jesus was welcomed to Jerusalem as king of the Jews. Many thought him to be an earthly king, sent by God to free them from the occupying Roman army. They did not understand that Jesus is not an earthly king; instead Jesus is King of God’s kingdom, both here and in heaven.

On Palm Sunday in most parishes in this country and in many countries throughout the world, palm branches are still a large part of the liturgical celebrations. The palm branches are blessed and distributed to the assembly. Often the entire assembly processes into the church holding palm branches and welcoming Jesus with the words "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord." (Luke 19:38)

Family Activity

	Read aloud the Scripture story of Jesus’ final entry into Jerusalem. (Luke 19:28-38) Or, tell the story in your own words.

	•		Read or tell the story slowly and dramatically, allowing family members to place themselves in the story as they listen.
	•		If time and circumstances allow, take a short spring walk together remembering Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem. Notice all the signs of new life around them.

See the Liturgical Calendar on this site for additional information.
See also Catechist—Lent or Teacher—Lent for Liturgy.