Palm Sunday will be here sooner than you know. Before you go searching the web for tutorials so that you can master the technique required to create the perfect palm cross (or something that, at the very least, vaguely resembles one) take a read of our handy guide to the feast day.
When does it take place?
This year it takes place on Sunday 20 March (that's this Sunday!). Each year, Palm Sunday marks the last Sunday of Lent and the start of Holy Week.
What's so special about it?
On Palm Sunday we commemorate the day that Jesus "comes to Jerusalem as King". It's also significant because the events we remember took place the week before his crucifixion and resurrection.
Why palms?
During the period, palms were usually placed ahead of kings or other high-profile individuals as a mark of respect and they were also symbolic of victory in Greco-Roman times. As Jesus entered Jerusalem crowds of people formed a procession and spread out palm leaves on the ground before him. Christians have been observing Palm Sunday by carrying leaves from palm plants and other trees during Mass or as part of processions held at church for hundreds of years.
Where do all the palms come from?
Palm leaf harvesters from all across the world are responsible for cultivating and getting the crop ready for the feast day. So many palms are required for the day that harvesters have to work all year round in preparation.
What happens to the unused palms?
The majority of the leaves are picked up by churchgoers and fashioned into crosses (this can be a tricky task). Any leftover palms don't go to waste. They're blessed beforehand and the remaining palm leaves are collected, burned and their ashes are used in Ash Wednesday services the next year.
What does the Bible say about it?
All four Gospels recount the events of the day that we now refer to as Palm Sunday. Jesus is described as riding into Jerusalem on a donkey. This choice of animal is hugely symbolic because a donkey ridden by a king signalled peaceful intentions. Below is a snapshot of how each Gospel depicts the day.
Matthew 21:8 - A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road; while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.
Mark 11:8 - Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields.
Luke 19:36 - As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.
John 12:13 - They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, 'Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the king of Israel!'.
