Passion Sunday

Passion Sunday, the fifth Sunday in Lent, marks the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian tradition. It comes before Easter Sunday and commemorates Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where the crowds welcomed Him by waving palm branches and shouting praises.

The day is significant as it transitions into the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. Many churches celebrate Passion Sunday with a procession, where worshippers carry palm branches or other greenery. These palms are sometimes later burned to create Ash for Ash Wednesday the following year.

In liturgical practices, the readings for the day typically include the Passion narrative, which recounts the events of Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection. This serves as a reminder of the central themes of sacrifice and redemption in Christianity. The somber tone of the Passion readings contrasts with the earlier celebratory aspects, inviting contemplation of the joy of Jesus’ entry and the seriousness of His impending suffering.