A commemoration of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem can be traced back to the fourth century in Jerusalem and has a complex history including reforms in the 20th century that led to the changes that occurred after the Second Vatican Council. Before the Council, the Fifth Sunday of Lent was Passion Sunday, and the Sixth Sunday was Palm Sunday. The Council combined the two celebrations into one on the Sixth (last) Sunday of Lent in the new liturgical calendar of 1969.
It is good to know this bit of history because it explains the wide mood shift that occurs on this day. We begin with the joyful and triumphant ride into Jerusalem. We move to a more somber tone with the Liturgy of the Word’s focus on Jesus’ passion and death. The formal title of the day is: “Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord.”
Today’s blog will be on Palm Sunday; Passion Sunday will come later this week.
We begin Palm Sunday by adding a special ritual to the beginning of Mass. We are recalling a part of Christ’s life, his entrance into Jerusalem that a few days later will end in his death. But the journey begins in triumph with people rejoicing in Jesus’ presence.
The people of that day thought that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah who would overthrow the Roman government. The people waved palm branches, spread their cloaks on the road before him, and shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest.” They were quoting Psalm 118:25-26. Palm branches were a symbol of victory and power.
Today there are options for this commemoration, but most parishes choose one that includes the proclamation of the Gospel about Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem, this year Matthew 21:1-11. It also includes a procession into the church. We process with palms and sing “Hosanna” not as a reenactment of the event. We join together in procession with all of God’s people throughout history. We acclaim Christ as the Messiah who establishes the Reign of God, a reign which is already here, but is still to come. As we begin this week in which we will commemorate Jesus’ passion, death, and resurrection, we remember the triumph of Christ, and we ask God that we may follow Christ into the heavenly Jerusalem.
Reflection Opportunity on the Commemoration of the Entry into Jerusalem
1. Before Mass, read and reflect on the Gospel for this year’s procession.
2. How does this Palm Sunday ritual help me prepare for the liturgies of Holy Week/Triduum?
3. What kind of Messiah am I looking for?
4. We know from the Scriptures proclaimed this day that a crowd in favor of something one day can easily turn against it when the tide shifts. Is the direction of my life moving me closer to or away from Christ? How firm is my commitment to Christ?
