Palm Sunday

On Palm Sunday, or Flowery Sunday, we commemorate Christ's triumphant entrance into Jerusalem. The Gospel of John (12:12-18) recounts the crowds greeting Jesus with palm branches, hailing Him as the King who comes in the name of the Lord. In the Byzantine Catholic Rite, this feast beautifully blends joy and solemnity: we rejoice in the Messiah's coming, yet we also recognize that His path leads to the Cross. The faithful gather to bless branches, chant hymns of victory, and reflect on the paradox of Christ’s kingship—one of humility, sacrifice, and ultimate glory. His entrance into Jerusalem is not merely a historical event, but a spiritual reality inviting each of us to welcome Him into our hearts.

Let today be a reminder of what true kingship looks like—one that embraces humility, love, and self-giving. As we hold our blessed branches, let them not merely be symbols, but signs of our own hearts opening to Him. May this Palm Sunday prepare us for the journey ahead, to walk with Christ in His Passion, knowing that the road to the Cross always leads to the Resurrection.