Palm Sunday: the main thing about the holiday

      The history of the holiday goes back to the events when the inhabitants of Jerusalem enthusiastically greeted Christ, waving palm branches and shouting "Hosanna in the highest!". Palm trees do not grow in our region, so people traditionally use willow, the first spring flower symbolizing awakening and new life, according to the Vyatka Diocese.

      On this day, believers bring willow branches to churches for consecration. The day before, on Saturday, during the all-night service, the priest reads special prayers and sprinkles the willow with holy water.

      The willow tree in the Orthodox tradition has a deep meaning. If for the ancient Jews it was a symbol of the earthly king, then for Christians it is a sign of meeting with the Heavenly King. Willow twigs become a symbol of hope for salvation and forgiveness of sins.

      It is customary to keep consecrated willow trees near icons all year round. Old twigs can be burned in a clean place or given to the temple for disposal.

      This holiday reminds believers that even in the most difficult moments of life, there is hope for salvation through God's love for man. The willow tree becomes a visible sign of this hope and consolation for every sinner.

      Palm Sunday is not only a reminder of historical events, but also a reminder that everyone can count on forgiveness and salvation, regardless of their past mistakes and sins.