Palm Sunday is the last Sunday before Easter. Despite the fact that it falls on Lent and precedes Holy Week, it is a church holiday. It is dedicated to the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, and its symbol is the green branches of plants, palms, with which the townspeople greeted the Lord. Since the willow is one of the first to bloom in Russia, believers use its branches instead of palm branches.
Instructions
Step 1
In all Orthodox churches, solemn services are held on this day. On them, believers can consecrate willow twigs with fluffy buds that have hatched and then keep such a bunch next to their home images. According to beliefs, consecrated willow branches protect the house, bring peace and prosperity to it. Find out when the temple service begins and head to church for Matins early in the morning. It's good if you hire children.
Step 2
You can buy bouquets of several branches of willow in front of the temple before the service begins. Some people prefer to pick branches on their own, having gone into the forest the day before. However, there is no difference, so you can buy a pussy willow from the temple, giving the opportunity to earn money for those who feed at it.
Step 3
Consecrate the willow branches during the service, pray, praise the Lord as the conqueror of death. Remember the suffering he experienced in the coming Holy Week, fill your soul and heart with love and kindness.
Step 4
If this day is warm and sunny, do not rush home, take a walk with the children. Tell us about what a holiday it is for believers and what this day means for them, on which Jesus entered the path that led him to death for those who believe in him.
Step 5
Visit the "willow bazaar" if your city arranges it. Traditionally, they sell toys, sweets, children's books and Palm Sunday-themed souvenirs.
Step 6
Prepare a festive dinner at home. On this day, despite the fact that Great Lent continues, the church does not forbid eating fish dishes, vinaigrette cooked in vegetable oil, and even drinking wine. Limit yourself to a glass of dry red wine or a glass of Cahors, a festive feast should not escalate into a banal booze.
