I spent several hours yesterday morning helping to prepare palms and flowers for today’s Palm Sunday services at St. Martin de Porres Episcopal Church in Alexandria, Virginia, my home church. We made a lot of crosses from the palms (and I braided some too), but there are plenty left to wave this morning. We will begin our services outdoors with the Liturgy of the Palms and then the congregation will process into the church singing “All Glory, Laud, and Honor” as they wave their palm fronds.
I made this little arrangement when I returned home yesterday with a cross that I had folded, two braided lengths of palms, and a leftover camellia.
Happy Palm Sunday to all those who are celebrating today as we begin Holy Week.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Not religious, but beautiful photo. And always happy when others find peace in the rituals of their beliefs. Happy Easter!
Thanks, Cindy, for your thoughtful comment. Polarization has become the norm in society these days, it seems, so I find it refreshing when we can respects the views and practices of others with whom we disagree.
This is beautiful, Mike! Happy Palm Sunday and Holy Week! I praise God daily for my blessings and his beautiful creation.
Thanks. My faith is part of who I am and I unapologetically choose to share that publicly. I recognize that not all my readers share my beliefs, but I think that we should be willing to respect those with different beliefs (with some obvious exceptions). I grew up in a Baptist church, but now worship in an Episcopal church. Some practices seem a little strange, but I like the way that most Episcopal congregations follow a “via media” that avoids extremes and allows for differing views–our diversity, I would argue, is our strength.
You’re welcome, Mike. My blog is called, “Flannel with Faith”. I respect your faith and like you, I respect those with different beliefs. I’m no judge! I grew up in a strict Baptist environment. My grandfather, who would be 112 if alive, scared the “hell” straight out of me, Mike! Lol.
Through the turns, tosses, and bends on the river of life, I grew to have a relationship with Christ. I’m non-denominational.
Diversity is a strength. I’ve never been a “radical” person. Nor an extremist. I just hope to share hope, love, and a message of faith with others. For I believe humanity needs hope, compassion, and kindness. There is so much division in this world. Which is why I didn’t attend church for YEARS. Nature became my church. Recently, I started attending a local one after my move with this cancer. They are open-minded and openhearted. Also, kind and truthful. I respect that. I knew when I created my blog there would be many who would not relate. Yet, I had an avid atheist reader, many of different religions, and some that share the same belief in Jesus. I love learning and hearing people’s amazing stories! I love the encouragement that I’ve found in this WP community and its people! Keep sharing, Mike! You’re photos and expertise are appreciated! And your faith is too, my friend. Many blessings!
Love ya girl! Need to email you and hear more of your story. 🙂
Yes! I’d love that.❤️ I’ve been up all night 🙃 I should’ve emailed then lol . Happy Monday dear friend!love you! 💕🎶🙏🏻💛
Lovely, Mike.
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Thanks, Mitzy.
A beautiful post and photo that shows another of your many talents. I am reminded of a similar cross made of palm that was made and gifted to me by an elderly neighbor of Benjamin whilst he was still a toddler. “Palm Sunday invites us to reflect on the paradox of Jesus’ kingship, which is revealed not in power and splendor, but in humility and sacrifice.” – Rev. Timothy Keller (1950-2023). Thank-YOU, Mr. Mike!
Thanks so much for your kind words. Braiding the palm fronds reminded me of my days as a camp counselor, when I would help the kids make lanyards and other items with “gimp.” We had a wonderful service today, with the congregation processing into the church with a saxophone playing as we sang “All Glory, Laud, and Honor.” In case you care curious, I am one of the song leaders at the church.
Happy Palm Sunday to you and those who mean the most to you!
Lovely.
Happy Palm Sunday Mike. Your palm cross looks wonderful. Mine never look that good.
Very pretty. Happy Palm Sunday! 🌴