Palm Sunday 2025 Date Revealed and Explained

Palm Sunday 2025 date marks the commencement of Holy Week, a pivotal period in the Christian liturgical calendar. This important day, rich with historical and theological significance, sets the stage for an enthralling narrative, offering readers a glimpse into a story that is rich in detail and brimming with originality from the outset. Understanding how this date is determined provides insight into the intricate workings of religious observances and their connection to celestial cycles.

The calculation of Palm Sunday’s date is intrinsically linked to Easter, a movable feast. Unlike fixed holidays, Easter’s timing shifts annually, dictated by a complex system rooted in lunar cycles and the vernal equinox. This intricate dance of celestial events and theological tradition culminates in the precise date for Palm Sunday, a day commemorating Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, foretelling the events that follow in Holy Week.

Determining the Date of Palm Sunday 2025

The rhythm of the Christian year, a tapestry woven with ancient traditions and profound theological significance, dictates the observance of holy days. Within this sacred calendar, certain feasts, known as “movable feasts,” do not adhere to a fixed date each year but are instead calculated based on celestial events and foundational Christian commemorations. Palm Sunday, a solemn prelude to Holy Week, is one such significant movable feast, its timing intrinsically linked to the resurrection of our Lord.The determination of Palm Sunday’s date is a practice steeped in history, reflecting the early Church’s efforts to synchronize its observances with the Paschal mystery.

This calculation is not arbitrary but follows a precise, universally recognized method that ensures a unified commemoration across the Christian world. Understanding this method illuminates the interconnectedness of the liturgical year and the enduring importance of Easter as its central pivot.

The Liturgical Calendar and Movable Feasts

The liturgical calendar, also known as the ecclesiastical calendar, is a system used by various Christian denominations to organize and celebrate significant events in the life of Jesus Christ and the history of salvation. Unlike the civil calendar, which is based on the Earth’s revolution around the sun (the Gregorian calendar), the liturgical calendar is primarily anchored by the lunar cycle and the pivotal event of Easter.

This calendar is divided into seasons, such as Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Eastertide, each with its own theological themes and observances.Movable feasts are those dates that change from year to year. Their calculation is a complex yet elegant system rooted in the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. This council decreed that Easter should be celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the vernal equinox (the first day of spring).

This foundational rule for Easter then dictates the dates of all other movable feasts, including Palm Sunday, Ascension Day, and Pentecost. The significance of this system lies in its connection to the ancient Jewish Passover, which was also a lunar-based festival, thus linking the New Testament events to their Old Testament foreshadowing.

The Calculation Method for Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday, or Passion Sunday, is observed on the Sunday immediately preceding Easter Sunday. Therefore, the calculation of Palm Sunday’s date is entirely dependent on the date of Easter. As established by the Council of Nicaea, Easter is determined by the following rule: it falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs on or after the vernal equinox.

The vernal equinox is conventionally fixed as March 21st for this calculation, regardless of the actual astronomical equinox.Once the date of Easter Sunday is ascertained, Palm Sunday is simply the preceding Sunday. For example, if Easter Sunday falls on April 20th, then Palm Sunday would be observed on April 13th. This method ensures that Palm Sunday always occurs within the Lenten season, specifically on the last Sunday of Lent, marking the beginning of Holy Week.

“The Sunday of the Passion, or Palm Sunday, shall be the Sunday immediately preceding Easter.” (General Norms for the Liturgical Year and the Calendar, Article 32)

The observance of Palm Sunday in 2025 falls on April 13th, marking the commencement of Holy Week. While anticipating this significant Christian commemoration, one might also consult resources such as the may 2026 calendar for future planning. Understanding these calendrical details helps in accurately marking significant religious dates like Palm Sunday 2025.

The Relationship Between Easter and Palm Sunday

Easter Sunday stands as the supreme feast in the Christian calendar, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is the bedrock of Christian faith, signifying victory over sin and death and the promise of eternal life. Palm Sunday, observed precisely one week before Easter, serves as a poignant and preparatory observance. It commemorates the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, where he was hailed by crowds waving palm branches, a symbol of victory and royalty.However, this initial celebration is quickly overshadowed by the events that follow: the Last Supper, Jesus’ betrayal, trial, crucifixion, and burial.

Thus, Palm Sunday initiates Holy Week, a period of intense reflection, fasting, and prayer, leading up to the ultimate celebration of the resurrection. The juxtaposition of the initial acclamation with the impending suffering highlights the multifaceted nature of Christ’s mission – his kingship not of earthly power, but of sacrificial love and redemptive suffering.

Historical Context of Palm Sunday Observance

The observance of Palm Sunday has a rich and ancient history, evolving from early Christian practices. Evidence suggests that the commemoration of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem dates back to the early centuries of Christianity. By the 4th century, pilgrims to Jerusalem were reenacting Jesus’ triumphant entry, with processions involving branches. The veneration of palms and their use in processions became a widespread custom.The earliest liturgical texts referencing the blessing of palms appear around the 7th century.

The practice spread throughout the Western Church and was formalized within the Roman Rite. In many traditions, the palms blessed on this day are later burned and used as ashes for Ash Wednesday of the following year, creating a cyclical reminder of repentance and the Passion. This historical trajectory underscores the enduring significance of Palm Sunday as a gateway to the most sacred week of the Christian year.

Significance and Observance of Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday, a day of profound spiritual weight, ushers in Holy Week, the solemn period leading up to Easter. It is a vibrant commemoration that bridges the jubilant acclamation of Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem with the somber reflection on His subsequent passion and sacrifice. The narrative woven on this day echoes through centuries, reminding believers of a pivotal moment in Christian history, a testament to faith, prophecy, and the unfolding of divine will.This day’s observance is deeply rooted in the Gospel accounts, particularly those found in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

These scriptures vividly describe Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, a scene charged with anticipation and symbolic meaning. The crowds, aware of His miracles and teachings, hailed Him as their King, their Messiah, casting palm branches and cloaks before Him, an act of homage reserved for royalty and conquerors. This reception, though outwardly glorious, held within it the foreknowledge of the suffering that would soon follow, a duality that imbues Palm Sunday with its unique poignancy.

The Biblical Narrative of Jesus’ Triumphant Entry

The Gospels recount that as Jesus approached Jerusalem, He sent two disciples to retrieve a donkey and its colt. This act was a deliberate fulfillment of the prophecy found in Zechariah 9:9, which foretold the coming of a humble king riding on a colt. Upon His arrival, a large crowd, having heard of His miracles, met Him. They spread their cloaks and branches of palm trees on the road before Him, shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is coming! Hosanna in the highest!” This acclamation, “Hosanna,” a Hebrew word meaning “save us,” underscores their fervent hope for deliverance and recognition of Jesus as their longed-for king.

Symbolic Meaning of Palm Branches

Palm branches have long been a potent symbol within Christian tradition, representing victory, peace, and eternal life. In ancient cultures, the palm was associated with triumph and was often used in celebrations of victory. For Christians, these branches are a tangible reminder of Jesus’ victory over sin and death, a victory that is fully realized on Easter Sunday. The act of waving palm branches during the liturgy on Palm Sunday mirrors the actions of the crowds in Jerusalem, signifying a welcoming of Christ as King and a recognition of His ultimate triumph.

Common Practices and Traditions on Palm Sunday

Across various Christian denominations, Palm Sunday is observed with distinct yet often overlapping traditions, all aimed at commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and initiating Holy Week. These practices typically involve a procession, the distribution of blessed palm branches, and special liturgical readings.

• Processions: Many churches conduct a procession, often beginning outside the church building, where the faithful gather with their palm branches. This procession symbolizes Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, with the congregation following a designated path, sometimes re-enacting the journey.
• Distribution of Blessed Palms: Following the procession or at the beginning of the main service, priests or ministers distribute blessed palm branches to the congregants. These branches are often woven into crosses or kept as sacramental items.
• Liturgical Readings: The readings for Palm Sunday services focus on the Passion of Christ. This often includes a dramatic reading of the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion, serving as a stark contrast to the initial acclamations of His kingship.
• Palm Crosses: Many individuals and churches create small crosses from the palm fronds. These are often kept throughout the year as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.
• Children’s Participation: Palm Sunday services often include special elements for children, such as the distribution of smaller palm branches or activities that help them understand the significance of the day in an age-appropriate manner.

Atmosphere and Mood of Palm Sunday Services

The atmosphere during Palm Sunday services is a unique blend of joyous celebration and solemn reflection. The initial part of the service, with the processions and the waving of palm branches, is often filled with a sense of exhilaration and hope. The chanting of “Hosanna” and the triumphant hymns create an atmosphere of welcoming and adoration, mirroring the crowds’ enthusiastic reception of Jesus.

However, this initial joy is soon tempered by the solemnity of the readings from the Passion narrative. The mood shifts from outward celebration to an inward contemplation of Christ’s suffering and sacrifice. This duality creates a profound emotional landscape for worshippers, preparing their hearts for the deeper spiritual journey of Holy Week.

“Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”

Palm Sunday in the Context of Holy Week

Palm Sunday, with its vibrant processions and jubilant cries, marks not merely a single day of observance but the very gateway into the most sacred and profound period of the Christian liturgical year: Holy Week. This week, a concentrated period of remembrance and reflection, leads believers through the final days of Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry, culminating in His passion, death, and glorious resurrection.

Palm Sunday, therefore, is the overture, setting the tone and introducing the central themes that will unfold with increasing solemnity and theological depth.The observances of Palm Sunday stand in stark contrast to the somber and introspective nature of the days that follow, particularly Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. While Palm Sunday is characterized by outward expressions of praise and acclamation, the latter days of Holy Week are marked by a profound stillness and a focus on sacrifice and suffering.

This deliberate shift in tone and practice underscores the multifaceted narrative of salvation, encompassing both Christ’s triumphant entry and His ultimate act of redemption.

Theological Importance of Holy Week Events

The events of Holy Week are the bedrock of Christian theology, encapsulating the core tenets of faith. From the acclamation of Jesus as King on Palm Sunday to His betrayal, suffering, and crucifixion on Good Friday, each moment reveals different facets of God’s redemptive plan. The triumphal entry on Palm Sunday, though met with earthly cheers, foreshadows Christ’s spiritual kingship and His ultimate victory over sin and death.

Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, establishing the sacrament of Holy Communion and highlighting Christ’s command to love one another, a love demonstrated through His impending sacrifice. Good Friday confronts the stark reality of sin and the immense cost of redemption, as Jesus willingly endures crucifixion, embodying the ultimate act of love and atonement. These events collectively illustrate the profound paradox of the Christian faith: that through suffering and death, life and salvation are made possible.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

Sequence of Events for Holy Week

Holy Week unfolds as a carefully orchestrated narrative, guiding the faithful through the critical moments of Christ’s final journey. This structured progression allows for a deep engagement with the theological significance of each event, building towards the ultimate celebration of Easter.

1. Palm Sunday: The week commences with the commemoration of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This day is marked by processions, often with people carrying palm branches, symbolizing peace and victory. It is a day of outward joy and acclamation, recognizing Jesus as the Messiah and King.
2. Holy Monday: Often a day of reflection, focusing on Jesus’ cleansing of the Temple and His teachings.
3. Holy Tuesday: This day typically involves Jesus’ confrontations with religious authorities and His prophecies concerning the Temple’s destruction and His second coming.
4. Spy Wednesday: Traditionally, this day recalls Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus. It is a day of somber reflection on betrayal and the forces that led to Christ’s arrest.
5. Maundy Thursday: This day is dedicated to the institution of the Eucharist (Holy Communion) during the Last Supper and the commandment of love Jesus gave to His disciples. It also includes the washing of the feet, symbolizing humility and service, and often concludes with a vigil, reflecting on Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane.
6. Good Friday: The most solemn day of Holy Week, commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Services focus on the Passion narrative, the suffering of Christ, and His sacrifice for the sins of humanity. It is a day of fasting and deep mourning.
7. Holy Saturday (or Great Saturday): This day is a period of waiting and quiet anticipation. It is the transition between the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter. Many churches hold an Easter Vigil service late on Saturday night, marking the beginning of the Resurrection celebration.

Visual Representations of Palm Sunday: Palm Sunday 2025 Date

The narrative of Palm Sunday, a pivotal moment in Christian tradition, has been vividly captured and expressed through various visual mediums, allowing believers to connect with the historical event and its profound spiritual meaning. These representations serve not only as artistic endeavors but as powerful tools for teaching, remembrance, and devotion, painting a picture of joy, anticipation, and the foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrifice.

The visual arts, from humble street scenes to grand frescoes, translate the Gospel accounts into tangible forms that resonate across generations.These artistic interpretations often focus on the sensory richness of the event, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Jerusalem on that fateful day. The visual language employed speaks volumes, conveying the emotions of the crowd, the symbolic weight of the palm branches, and the humble yet triumphant arrival of Jesus.

By examining these visual elements, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted significance of Palm Sunday.

Palm Sunday Procession: A Sensory Tapestry

Imagine a scene alive with vibrant hues and resonant sounds. The air, warm and alive with the scent of dust and distant blossoms, hums with a joyous clamor. A multitude of people, their faces turned upwards with a mixture of awe and exultation, surge forward. In their hands, they wave freshly cut palm fronds, their green leaves a stark contrast against the sun-baked earth and the simple tunics of the faithful.

The rustling of these branches creates a percussive rhythm, a natural symphony accompanying the voices raised in song and acclamation. Children, their laughter like bright sparks, weave through the throng, their small hands clutching their own palm branches. The sunlight, brilliant and clear, casts long shadows, highlighting the dust kicked up by countless feet. The very atmosphere feels charged with an unspoken anticipation, a collective breath held in the face of a momentous arrival.

Artistic Depiction of Jesus’ Entry into Jerusalem

An artistic rendering of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem often portrays a humble figure on a donkey, a deliberate contrast to the expected royal procession. The donkey itself is a symbol of peace and humility, underscoring Jesus’ non-violent approach to kingship. Around him, a vibrant crowd surges, their garments a mix of earthy tones and brighter accents, suggesting the diverse populace of the city.

Many extend their cloaks and the aforementioned palm branches onto the path before him, creating a makeshift royal carpet. Their faces are etched with hope and adoration, their gestures conveying fervent welcome. The backdrop might feature the imposing walls of Jerusalem, a testament to the city’s significance, while the sky above is often depicted as clear and radiant, signifying divine approval and the dawning of a new era.

The overall impression is one of humble triumph, a king arriving not with military might, but with divine purpose and the love of his people.

Common Iconography of Palm Sunday in Religious Art

The iconography associated with Palm Sunday is rich and consistently employed across various artistic traditions, serving as visual cues for the faithful. The most prominent symbol is, of course, the palm branch itself, representing victory and triumph, a direct echo of ancient triumphal processions. Jesus is almost invariably depicted riding on a donkey or colt, a symbol of peace and humility, contrasting with the horses typically ridden by earthly rulers.

The crowds are characterized by their enthusiastic gestures, often shown waving palm branches and strewing garments. The city of Jerusalem, with its distinctive architecture, frequently forms the backdrop, grounding the event in its historical and geographical context. In some depictions, particularly in Eastern Orthodox art, there may be a subtle foreshadowing of the Passion, perhaps a slightly more somber expression on Christ’s face or a hint of the crowds’ eventual fickleness.

Church Decorations for Palm Sunday

As Palm Sunday dawns, churches transform into vibrant sanctuaries, echoing the joyous celebration of Christ’s entry into Jerusalem. The air within the sacred space is often filled with the sweet, earthy aroma of fresh greenery. The altar, the heart of the worship space, is typically adorned with abundant displays of palm fronds and other verdant branches, their lushness symbolizing life and renewal.

These branches are often woven into elaborate arrangements or simply placed with reverence, creating a sense of natural abundance. Pious hands meticulously arrange these natural elements, sometimes incorporating flowers that bloom in early spring, adding splashes of color like white lilies or purple irises, further enhancing the festive atmosphere. The aisles and pews may also be subtly decorated, with small palm crosses offered to congregants, tangible reminders of the day’s significance.

The visual effect is one of solemn rejoicing, a sacred space brought alive with the beauty of creation, reflecting the triumph and hope that Palm Sunday heralds.

Palm Sunday Traditions and Practices

Palm Sunday, a day rich with symbolic meaning, is observed with a tapestry of traditions and practices that beautifully weave together devotion, remembrance, and communal celebration. These customs, while sharing a common spiritual core, often exhibit unique regional flavors, reflecting the diverse cultural landscapes where Christianity has taken root. The observance of Palm Sunday serves as a powerful visual and spiritual prelude to the solemnity of Holy Week, reminding believers of Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem and the events that followed.The global observance of Palm Sunday showcases a remarkable diversity in how this sacred day is honored.

While the core act of commemorating Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem with shouts of “Hosanna” remains central, the expressions of this commemoration vary significantly across denominations, countries, and even local communities. These variations highlight the adaptability of faith and its ability to resonate with local customs and expressions, creating a vibrant mosaic of Christian devotion.

Regional and Cultural Variations in Palm Sunday Observance

Across the globe, Palm Sunday traditions are shaped by local heritage, climate, and available resources, leading to a fascinating array of customs. In many Western Christian traditions, particularly in Europe and North America, the distribution of blessed palm branches is a central feature. These are often carried in processions, symbolizing the joy and acclamation of Jesus’ arrival. In some Mediterranean cultures, particularly in Greece and Italy, olive branches are traditionally used in place of palms, reflecting the abundance of olive trees in those regions.

While Palm Sunday 2025 falls on a specific date, understanding the liturgical calendar reveals fascinating patterns; for instance, the related observance of april 3 2026 provides context for future Easter cycles. This analytical perspective helps in anticipating the exact timing for significant religious observances, including the anticipation of Palm Sunday 2025.

These branches are then often blessed and carried in processions, sometimes adorned with ribbons or flowers.In some parts of Eastern Europe, such as Ukraine and Russia, while palms might be scarce, other green branches like willow or boxwood are used, often referred to as “Verba” (willow). These are blessed and brought to homes, where they are kept throughout the year as a symbol of blessing and protection.

In the Philippines, a nation with a strong Catholic heritage, elaborate processions are common, often featuring large statues of Jesus riding a donkey, accompanied by devotees carrying palm branches and singing hymns. In some African traditions, Palm Sunday observances can be highly vibrant and participatory, with music, dancing, and community gatherings that emphasize the joyous aspect of Jesus’ entry.

Unique Customs and Ceremonies

Beyond the common distribution of palm branches, several unique customs add depth to Palm Sunday observances. In some parishes, particularly those with a strong liturgical tradition, the Gospel reading recounting Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem is dramatically reenacted. This might involve a priest or a designated reader carrying a crucifix or a representation of Jesus, while the congregation follows, waving their palm branches and singing hymns.

This living tableau brings the biblical narrative to life for the faithful.In certain Catholic communities, especially in Latin America, the blessed palm branches are woven into intricate crafts and decorative items. These can include crosses, braids, and other religious symbols, which are then kept in homes as a reminder of the day’s significance and as a form of spiritual protection.

Some traditions also involve the burning of last year’s blessed palm branches to create ashes for Ash Wednesday of the following year, symbolizing the cycle of repentance and renewal. In some Orthodox traditions, the services may incorporate the blessing of grapes or other fruits alongside the palm branches, signifying the abundance of God’s creation and the promise of new life.

Significance of Blessed Palm Branches

The distribution and use of blessed palm branches on Palm Sunday are deeply symbolic. The act of blessing imbues the branches with spiritual significance, transforming them from ordinary foliage into sacramental objects. The palm branch itself is a ancient symbol of victory, triumph, and peace. In the context of Palm Sunday, it represents the acclamation of Jesus as King and Messiah, the joyous welcome he received from the crowds in Jerusalem.

As the date for Palm Sunday 2025 approaches, discussions often arise regarding the origins of Easter celebrations, prompting an examination of whether is Easter a pagan holiday. Regardless of such historical debates, the observance of Palm Sunday, a significant Christian commemoration, will proceed as scheduled, marking the beginning of Holy Week before Palm Sunday 2025.

“Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” (John 12:13)

When believers receive and carry these blessed branches, they are participating in that historical moment, acknowledging Jesus’ kingship and their own commitment to him. The branches serve as a tangible reminder of Christ’s humble triumph, a foreshadowing of his ultimate victory over sin and death through the crucifixion and resurrection. They are often kept in homes throughout the year as a reminder of faith, a symbol of God’s protection, and a prayer for peace.

Potential Sermon Themes for Palm Sunday, Palm sunday 2025 date

For those preparing to deliver a sermon on Palm Sunday, a wealth of thematic possibilities exists, all rooted in the rich narrative of this pivotal day. These themes can guide the congregation in understanding the multifaceted significance of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and its relevance to contemporary life.Here are some potential sermon themes, designed to resonate with the spirit of Palm Sunday:

• The Nature of True Kingship: Exploring the contrast between worldly power and Jesus’ humble, sacrificial reign.
• Joyful Acclamation and Faithful Commitment: Examining the fickle nature of crowds and the call for unwavering discipleship.
• The Triumphal Entry as a Foreshadowing: Understanding how the joy of Palm Sunday points towards the ultimate victory of the resurrection.
• Embracing the Cross in the Midst of Celebration: Reflecting on how the joy of Palm Sunday is intertwined with the coming suffering of Holy Week.
• The Relevance of “Hosanna” Today: Considering what it means to cry “Hosanna” in our own lives and communities.
• Humility and Service as the Path to True Glory: Drawing lessons from Jesus’ entry on a donkey rather than a warhorse.
• The Power of Symbolic Acts: Discussing how rituals and symbols, like palm branches, connect us to sacred history and divine grace.
• Preparing Our Hearts for Holy Week: Using the energy of Palm Sunday as a springboard for deeper reflection and prayer in the week ahead.

Wrap-Up

In essence, Palm Sunday 2025 date is more than just a calendar entry; it’s a gateway to a week of profound reflection and spiritual observance. From the symbolic waving of palm branches to the solemn remembrance of Christ’s Passion, the traditions surrounding this day offer a multifaceted experience for believers. The journey through Holy Week, beginning with the jubilant yet somber Palm Sunday, culminates in the ultimate celebration of Easter, reinforcing the core tenets of Christian faith.

FAQ Compilation

When is Palm Sunday 2025?

Palm Sunday in 2025 falls on Sunday, April 13th. This date is determined by its proximity to Easter Sunday, which is the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox.

How is the date of Palm Sunday calculated?

Palm Sunday is always celebrated on the Sunday preceding Easter Sunday. Easter’s date is calculated as the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the vernal equinox (March 20 or 21). Therefore, Palm Sunday is fixed at six days before Easter.

What is the significance of palm branches on Palm Sunday?

Palm branches symbolize peace and victory. In the biblical narrative, crowds waved palm branches to welcome Jesus into Jerusalem, hailing him as a king and savior. Their use today continues this tradition of acknowledging Jesus’ kingship and his impending sacrifice.

Is Palm Sunday celebrated by all Christian denominations?

Yes, Palm Sunday is a significant observance for most major Christian denominations, including Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and many Protestant churches. While specific traditions may vary, the commemoration of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem is universally recognized.

What is the relationship between Palm Sunday and the rest of Holy Week?

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, a solemn period leading up to Easter. It is followed by days such as Maundy Thursday (commemorating the Last Supper) and Good Friday (commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus), culminating in Easter Sunday, the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.