Palm Sunday Celebrations Around the World

Many churches will celebrate Palm Sunday this weekend. In the Roman Catholic church, the service starts out as a festive re-enactment of Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem, complete with palm branches. Even here in the colder climate, churches get them. Many come from California or from European and Mediterranean areas. After the festive entrance, the service turns more tranquil with readings of the Lord's Passion.

Many churches do this in part to give it more meaning and make what is usually a rather lengthy reading easier to follow and pay attention to. I have participated at my church for many years, even before I was a radio guy.  It's a meaningful tradition for me.

Here are some traditions in other countries.

In Hoegaarden, Belgium, one of the last remaining Palm Sunday processions takes place every year. A fellowship of 12 apostles carries a wooden statue of Christ around the town, while children go door to door offering the palms (box) for coins.

In Finland it is popular for children to dress up as Easter witches and go door to door in neighborhoods for coins and candy. It is an old Karelian custom called Virpominen.

In the Saxon regions of the Netherlands, crosses are decorated with candy and bread, made in the form of a rooster. A great procession with oil lamps is held the night before Palm Sunday in honor of the Sorrowful Mother of Warfhuizen.

Whatever your traditions, if you have any, I hope it's a meaningful day for you.