April 2 is Palm Sunday – the day we remember Jesus triumphantly entering Jerusalem, hailed as king.
What’s with the palms, anyway? In ancient times, palm branches symbolized joy, triumph, grandeur and victory. Palms were used on festive occasions, and kings were welcomed with palm branches strewn before them and waved in the air.
The folks welcoming Jesus greeted him as a leader they hoped would free them from Roman rule, shouting “Hosanna” (or “save now”). As we walk with Jesus through Holy Week, we’ll reenact that triumphant entry… and all that followed after.
Come to church at 8:30 or 11 AM this Sunday, when we’ll hear readers reenact Jesus’ passion. At 9:45 you can learn how to make palm crosses in the garden close. Or join the 10 AM ecumenical palm procession that starts at First Presbyterian’s back doors.
Most important, come as you are. In person, online, whatever. Holy Week will be what it is because of your presence here.
Palm Sunday Schedule (April 2)
- 8:30 AM – Holy Eucharist with Passion Narrative – Chapel
- 9:45 AM – Palm Cross Workshop – Garden Close
- 10 AM – Procession with Palms with First Presbyterian and Trinity Methodist – Gather at First Presbyterian (Liberty Street side by glass doors)
- 11 AM* – Holy Eucharist with Passion Narrative – Church and Online (Facebook, YouTube); Download a bulletin