At our 8.30 and 10.30 am services at Emmanuel on Palm Sunday we will be distributing Palm Crosses to all who attend.

Many churches distribute Palm Crosses on Palm Sunday as part of their worship, an event which remembers Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem 2000 years ago – a reminder of the beginning of the most important week in the Christian calendar.

The Bible tells us that people cut branches from Palm trees, laid them across Jesus’ path and waved them in the air when he entered into Jerusalem.  However, they greeted Jesus, not as a spiritual Messiah, but as a potential political leader who would overthrow the Romans. Their shout of ‘Hosanna’ simply means ‘Save us now!’

In ancient times, Palm branches symbolized goodness and victory and were often depicted on coins and important buildings. King Solomon had Palm branches carved into the walls and doors of the temple (1 Kings 6:29). The last book in the Bible (Revelation 7:9) tells us that people from every nation will raise Palm branches to honour Jesus.

The Palm Cross is a reminder of the love God has for you, through Jesus, not just this Easter season, but all year round, which is why we suggest people display their Palm cross in a prominent position in their place of work or in their home.

I pray God’s richest blessing upon you, and those you love, this Easter and we invite you to join with us this Holy Week.