The date of Palm Sunday varies from year to year because it is based on the lunar calendar. In Western Christianity, Palm Sunday is the last day of Holy Week, and in Eastern Christianity, it is considered both the last day of Holy Week and the first day of Pascha (Easter).
A palm branch was a symbol of victory and triumph. It was customary to wave these branches around to show honor and respect to someone who had won a battle or competition.
The tradition of waving palm branches began in Rome after Julius Caesar's victory over Pharnaces II of Pontus at the Battle of Zela in 47 BC. The Romans continued this tradition, and they even named the month "April" after their goddess Aphrodite (Venus).
The day before Palm Sunday, Lazarus Saturday, believers prepare palm branches from palms, olive trees, or other tall leafy trees to wave or carry as they walk together in a procession after Mass on Palm Sunday morning. The procession is led by someone carrying a large cross covered with flowers and followed by people carrying banners and crosses while singing hymns.
Palm branches are then distributed among those gathered outside of the church as a symbol of peace and joy at Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.
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