Hundreds of faithful lined up outside Greek Orthodox churches across the country on Sunday to mark Palm Sunday (Κυριακή των Βαΐων), a key celebration in the Orthodox calendar that symbolises the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.
According to the Gospels, the crowds in Jerusalem welcomed Christ by waving palm branches and laying their cloaks on the ground, shouting “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
Traditionally, the faithful commemorate this moment by receiving small crosses made from palm leaves during the liturgy.
At the Church of Saints Anargiri in Oakleigh, Victoria, parishioners were seen queueing in large numbers, with many holding the symbolic palm crosses as they exited the church.
In the lead-up to the service, women volunteers, including Stella Papas, played a vital role in preparing churches across the country.
At Melbourne’s historic Evangelismos, women gathered in the days prior to hand-weave the palm crosses, a cherished tradition that continues to bind generations through faith and community.
“Palm Sunday marks the final day before Holy Week,” one volunteer told Neos Kosmos.
“It’s a day of joy before we begin the solemn journey through Christ’s Passion and Resurrection.”
Though Great Lent is typically a time of strict fasting, Palm Sunday is one of the few exceptions where fish is permitted.
For many, the palm cross is more than a token of the day – it becomes a spiritual keepsake. Some place it in their home iconostasis, others in their car, believing it offers protection throughout the year.
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