Palm Sunday (Passion Sunday) – Year A (2023)

The readings for Palm Sunday (Passion Sunday) for Year A focus on the stark contrast between the crowds love for Jesus and then their act of abandonment. The reading for the procession of the palms (Matthew 21:1-11) tells how Jesus was greeted by a joyous crowd when he entered Jerusalem. The first reading (Isaiah 50:4-7) speaks of the suffering servant. The psalm (Psalm 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24) reflects Jesus’ words on the cross, but ends as a song of praise. The second reading (Philippians 2:6-11) reminds us that Jesus is lord of all. And in the gospel (Matthew 26:14 – 27:66) we hear the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion and his willing sacrifice for us.

So these readings would lead us to reflect on Jesus’ act of sacrificial love, a revelation of the nature of God. Here are some ideas:

Lenten Activities: Have a Poor Man’s Meal for Dinner

Fasting is one of the traditional Lenten practices for Catholics. One way to fast is to have a poor man's meal. Instead of a full dinner, have a simple bowl of soup and a few crackers. This method of fasting is a way to express solidarity with the hungry and homeless in our community.

Lenten Activities: Visit an Elderly Relative or a Nursing Home

Visiting an elderly relative or friend can be a meaningful activity for children and teens during Lent. Or visit a nursing home.  But it can also be uncomfortable for children, young and old, who are not used to visiting with senior citizens. They seem to have so little in common. But in fact, there are some easy ways to break the ice.

Lenten Activities: Attend Good Friday Services

Good Friday is the Friday before Easter. On Good Friday, Catholics commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, who died to redeem us. There is no mass on Good Friday, but your local parish will hold a liturgy to remember this tremendous act of love. Attend them with your family. #GoodFriday

Lenten Activities: Attend the Mass of the Lord’s Supper

The Mass of the Lord's Supper commemorates the last supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples, when the institution of the priesthood and the Eucharist took place.  Holy Thursday is not a holy day of obligation, but you should consider attending with your whole family. #HolyThursday #Lent #priesthood #Eucharist

Mark Hart on Jesus Christ’s Crucifixion and Death

What does the cross mean? In this video, Mark Hart describes the physical process of crucifixion. Jesus chose to be beaten, humiliated, and killed for us. When you wear that cross on your neck or make the sign of the cross, really think about what that means.

The Daily Way of the Cross

The call to discipleship requires us to do more than study and pray. We are also called to act. The corporal works of mercy are a good way to think about concrete ways to help those around us. Practicing the works of mercy help us understand the needs of others.

Lenten Activities: Prayerfully Read the Passion of Our Lord

We are all familiar with the Passion story. We hear it every year on Palm Sunday and on Good Friday. But when we read it at Mass, we read it at the same pace as the whole congregation. So try reading it prayerfully on your own.