The Sunday before Easter, Armenian Orthodox Church celebrates Palm Sunday, the triumphant entry of our Lord Jesus Christ to Jerusalem. The altar that had been closed since Poon Paregentan, is once again opened. Palm Sunday is the last Sunday of lent and the beginning of Holy Week.

This year Palm Sunday was on April 13, 2014.  As in the past, St. John Armenian Church was decorated with palm branches; small woven palms crosses prepared and donated by Denise Patigan were given to congregation as they entered the church. The Solemn Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Fr. Mesrop Ash, and the beautiful hymns were sung by the choir. It was wonderful to see so many young acolytes and deacons serving on the altar.   Fr. Mesrop Ash gave a special sermon for kids and explained the meaning of Palm Sunday, and Holy Week, then he invited all the children to participate in a procession with the altar servers. The small palm leaves with candles were distributed to children to carry them which symbolize victory. Upon the conclusion of Divine Liturgy, the opening of the door (Turnpatzek) ritual was performed.

Following the church services, the congregation with blessed palm and olive leaves gathered at Paul family hall and enjoyed the light luncheon with fresh organic salad from St. John Garden sponcered by Parish Council and prepared by our ladies.