April 13 | Palm Sunday

“Hosanna” or “Hoshana” (הושענא) is a Hebrew word meaning save us now. Saint Augustine, fourth century bishop of the church, called Holy Week, the “Great Week” because of the great things that were accomplished during these days. Augustine said, “Unless the church can learn to identify itself with Christ in his death and resurrection, unless it can, on Palm Sunday, approach Jerusalem with Jesus, die with him on Holy Friday, and rise with him at the culmination of the Easter feast, the church cannot accomplish its mission, which is not only to proclaim the good news but to embody it in the world.” Many in the church recently celebrate Palm Sunday in two parts – the entry into Jerusalem and then the Passion of Jesus. FELC chooses to observe a more ancient custom and celebrate Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and reserve the Passion for Good Friday. We celebrate the Lord of heaven and earth riding on a donkey – and we, too, join the procession of people – whoever we are and from wherever. Jesus welcomes all.