The procession, which will start right after this, is our symbolic journey with Jesus, the King of Israel through the line David, into Jerusalem. We are privileged to participate liturgically in the Lord’s triumphal entry into the holy city. Hence, it is not something that happens before Mass, something added on. It is an integral part of the Passion Sunday liturgy. Mass has begun!
Processing is different from merely walking. While joyful, a procession is a solemn act of worship. A procession has a destination. Ultimately, of course, our destination and our destiny is the city of God, which will descend from heaven to earth.1 It is here that Christ will reign forever.
Our procession today culminates by our entrance into the Temple. Our Church symbolizes the Temple. We are those hailing and lauding Jesus as He enters the Temple precincts. Father Andrzej, acting in persona Christi captis, represents Christ.
To walk without a palm branch is walk and not process. It makes no sense to process without a palm branch. These branches are signs and symbols of your recognition of Jesus as Messiah, Savior, and Lord. Far from being incidental, these palm branches are an essential element of today’s liturgy.
During this procession, the sound that should be heard is our joyful singing- All glory, laud, and honor to You, Redeemer King. . .
Sisters and brothers,
like the crowds who acclaimed Jesus in Jerusalem,
let us go forth in peace
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