So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!”
—John 12:13—
Yesterday, Palm Sunday, started the Holy Week. It starts with one of the traditions I have always looked forward to, Palm Sunday mass. I remember as a little kid enjoying it because I received Palm leaves, which I used as a toy to play with my brothers and sister. (More like used as swords towards each other!) Well years passed and Palm Sunday mass is still one of my favorites. Up until recent, I figured out what exactly Palm Sunday means. I had an idea, and assumed, but never fully understood. Now I do and I understand why this is the “Holiest” week for the Catholic tradition. The palm branches were used to welcome Jesus Christ entering Jerusalem. They were held out to him, and lined the streets as he arrived. Voices sung out saying, “Blessed One who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!” Jesus came in riding a donkey, which is a symbol of peace. This is an occasion for reflecting on the final week of Jesus’ life. It is a time for Christians to prepare their hearts for the agony of His Passion and the joy of His Resurrection.
When I received my Palm leaves this past weekend at Church, I made them into crosses. It is very simple to do and I love how even the palm leaf can turn into a cross, symbolizing Jesus dying for us. The way I learned how to make my cross, was from a YouTube video I found. It is so very easy and out of all the other tutorials I have tried, this one always turns out the best. I also have a “Holy Week” printable with the link attached. The palm leaf and words on the printable are great to pair together. The words sum up Jesus’ events and the palm leaf, symbolizes his power of his merciful love and tender care.
I still cannot believe Easter is almost here! Now is the time to repent, pray, rejoice, celebrate and remember the sacrifice that was given up for us.
One of the crosses I made with my Palm leaves
They have dried out a bit, so they are not as vibrant as they first were
Just a few easy steps to make this cross
Here is my display, complete with the free printable I printed. The words match perfect for this Holy Week.
- Cross Palm Leaf Video Tutorial: Click Here
- Cross Palm Leaf Picture Tutorial: Click Here
- Holy Week Free Printable: Click Here
