Summary of Today s Story Jesus and his disciples come to Jerusalem for the Passover. Jesus tells his disciples to find a donkey and bring it to him. He gets on the donkey and rides into Jerusalem. As he enters the city, a crowd of people spread their cloaks on the road. Other people spread palm branches on the road before him, shouting, Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Key Concepts Palm/Passion Sunday Holy Week Hosanna! LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Where You ll Find Today s Story In the Bible We recommend the New Revised Standard Version Bible. Matthew 21:1-1 In Our Sunday Lectionary Today s story is told in church on the following Sundays: Year A: Palm/Passion Sunday
2 Lesson 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 Weaving Our Story with the Biblical Story Most of the people at the time saw Jesus as an earthly messiah or a prophet. But we know him as the Messiah, the one who comes from heaven to reconcile us with God. This story of Palm Sunday, though it depicts Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem, contains in it the seeds of sorrow. For we know also that his journey ends not in triumph but in death. We know that later he was crucified, died, and was buried. We know that the people later deny him, that Peter later denies him, that even we sometimes deny him. And Jesus knew that, too. Still Jesus stayed with us to the end, to his crucifixion and death. He remained true to his mission to be God with us. This event, which we call Palm Sunday or Passion Sunday, is the beginning of the end of his mission. But it is also the beginning of new life for us, as Jesus gives his own life to bring us new life in him. That is why this time the beginning of Holy Week, the most solemn time of our church year is so important to us as Christians. It is fitting that this Palm/Passion Sunday event begins our Holy Week, for in Jesus life and ministry his entry into Jerusalem just before the Passover was an enacted symbol of the coming of the reign of God. Jesus knew the prophetic writing of Zechariah 9:9: Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Zechariah here proclaims the coming of the ruler of God s people, one who would restore Jerusalem to the eschatological glory promised to her as the mother of Israel. Jesus takes this symbolic story of Zechariah and enacts it in reality, to signal the reign of God coming to fulfillment in him God with us. Jesus enactment of the coming of the reign of God will continue as he brings to his people a renewed covenant between God and God s people in his Last Supper. As he shares his body and blood with his disciples, it becomes clear that Jesus himself is the center of that new covenant. Jesus becomes for us the fulfillment of God s promises of union with God in a new creation. The Episcopal Thread The service of The Sunday of the Passion/Palm Sunday (BCP, p. 270-273) is one of the most majestic services of the entire Church year, marking the beginning of Holy Week, the most important week of the Church year. On this day, Episcopalians will ring out with the processional hymn for the Liturgy of the Palms, #154 from The Hymnal 1982 (New York, NY: Church Publishing, 1985): All glory, laud, and honor to thee, Redeemer, King! to whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring. When the people greet Jesus with the acclamation, Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven! we are reminded of the words we sing at the beginning of the Holy Communion (the Sanctus): Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest (BCP, p. 362). So at every Eucharist, we sing the song that the people cried as they waved their palms to Jesus, acclaiming him as the Blessed One of God.
3 Lesson 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 Gathering Check-In Invite group members to sit comfortably, giving them an opportunity to visit with each other, establish friendships and build community. Relationships are an important dimension of Christian formation, so a few minutes of visiting will enrich their spiritual development. This is also the perfect time to check in with your group members by asking them to share how they are feeling at the time or what kind of a week they had. matches cross Prayer small table with cloth to cover it taper or pillar candle After all group members have a few minutes of fellowship time, gather them together for a simple opening prayer. Ask one of the members to light the candle while saying these words from Psalm 119:105: Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Explain that you are inviting the light of God to be with all of you. (You might consider posting this verse from Psalm 119 in the meeting room.) Invite the member who lit the candle to read this prayer: Thank you, Lord, for being with us today. Show us the light of your love as we hear the story of your Son Jesus, who came into Jerusalem to be hailed as our king. We ask this in the name of Christ. Amen. Carefully extinguish the candle. Telling the Story Set the scene: Making Palm Crosses Have palm branches ready so you can teach the group members (or they can teach you!) how to make palm crosses. You will find an easy-to-follow pattern on page 13 of this lesson. You may choose to have them continue making the crosses during today s session, or they may make them for the congregation after the service. Read today s story from a Bible or tell the story in your own words. If you tell the story, focus on the large crowds of people who hail Jesus as the Messiah, the one who comes in the name of the Lord, though by later this week they will have him killed. But now, tell about the joy in the city, the cloaks spread out and the palms thrown down to greet him as people in those times greeted the arrival of a king. Or you could show excerpts from the film version of Jesus Christ Superstar, specifically the scene relating to Christ s passion. There are also other, more traditionally presented films depicting Jesus entry into Jerusalem and showing the kind of excitement that Jesus action generated, which very soon dissolved into the chaos around Jesus condemnation and death. At this time you do not need to explain or discuss the story. This is the time for the youth to hear the story. For now, simply let them absorb it in their minds and in their hearts. Later, use the discussion or arts time to help the group members draw appropriate and meaningful connections between the story and their own lives. Note: The Copyright Act permits the display of excerpts from copyright-protected movies when used in the course of face-to-face teaching activities by a non-profit educational institution, and if made using a lawfully made copy of the movie. Although
4 Lesson 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 we believe that your use of these film clips in Weaving God s Promises for Youth will comply with those provisions of the Copyright Act, all copyright issues relating to use of such film clips are solely your responsibility and neither Morehouse Education Resources nor any of its distribution partners have any liability to you if your use is found not to comply. Activities for This Week s Session Activities: Arts, Crafts, Games, Drama, etc. Select one or more activities to supplement and enhance today s story. For each lesson, there are five suggested activities, one from each of the REACT categories. For a detailed explanation of REACT, see page 10 of the Introduction. All activities are meant to reinforce the concepts that were central to the day s lesson. Additional activity ideas can be found on pages 2-6 in the Appendix where we ve provided suggestions and directions for a variety of general activities that can be adapted to any lesson. Also included are outreach and service projects that can be done at any time.
5 Lesson 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 Weaving Our Faith Lesson Box 1 3" x 5" index card for the day s scribe pen or pencil a file box in which to store the cards Ask for a volunteer or assign a group member to act as scribe. Then, ask the group to articulate the most important lesson gleaned from the day s reading. As a prompt, you might ask: Why did Jesus go forward knowing what was coming for him? What does this tell you about his character and his commitment to us? Once the group has agreed on its wording, ask the scribe to write the lesson on the card, date it and file it in the box. By the end of the year, you will have a wonderful and thorough summation of the lessons covered in the participant s own words. Closing Prayer Before the group leaves, say a closing prayer to send them into the church worship service or back to their homes in the knowledge of God s love and protection. Make up a prayer of your own or use the following: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, Heaven and earth are full of your glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. End the lesson with a dismissal that is used in church, such as: The peace of the Lord be always with you. The participants respond: And also with you.
SONGS OF PRAISE: OLD AND NEW Group members look over and perhaps sing existing hymns about Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. They also try their hand at writing their own lyrics. The Hymnal 1982 (New York: The Church Pension Fund, 1985) Lift Every Voice and Sing II (New York: Church Publishing, 1993) Wonder, Love, and Praise: A Supplement to The Hymnal 1982 (New York: The Church Pension Fund, 1997) My Heart Sings Out (New York: Church Publishing, 2005) paper pens or pencils optional: computer with Internet access and sound Preparation: Understandably, it is much easier to get a feel for a hymn by hearing it and not just reading the lyrics. If possible, arrange for the church s organist or with a pianist to meet with your group and play the music for the hymns. One of your group members may be talented on the keyboard and could help out with this. Meet in the choir room (if available) or use a portable keyboard. You may also log on to: http://www.stjamesoakland.com/midi/hymns to listen to the music for hymns #155 and 156 in The Hymnal 1982. Directions: 1. Direct the group members to the following hymns: from The Hymnal 1982: #155 ( All Glory, Laud and Honor ) and #156 ( Ride on in Majesty ) from Wonder Love and Praise: #728 ( Mantos y palmas esparciendo / Filled with Excitement ) from My Heart Sings Out: #90 ( The King of Glory Comes ), #91 ( Sanna ) and #94 ( Brother, Sister, Let Me Serve You ) 2. Have the organist/pianist play the music. Ask group members to sing or follow along. 3. If there is no one available to play the music, ask for volunteers to read the lyrics aloud. 4. Tell the group members to choose the hymn(s) they like best and to focus on specific words, lines or the overall message. 5. Let them know that now, they have an opportunity to write a new set of lyrics for a Palm Sunday hymn! 6 LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 ACTIVITY
6. It s possible that someone may say, I don t like any of these hymns!. This is the perfect segue into writing their own lyrics for Jesus arrival in Jerusalem. 7. As far as style is concerned, anything goes: more traditional, rock, country, hip hop, etc. 8. Regarding music: Music is not necessary; however, participants can decide for themselves if they want to set their lyrics to the current tune or to another one of their favorite hymns or songs. Close: Gather the writings and type up the lyrics for group members. If your church does have a choir director, he/she may want to work with the group in putting their words to music! 7 LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 ACTIVITY continued
WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS INTO THE CHURCH As a reminder of Jesus triumphant welcome into the city of Jerusalem, group members make Welcome Kits for people new to their congregation. writing paper pens, pencils, markers computer with printer (if available) clear gift bags (medium to large) ribbon, assorted colors new boxes of crayons small coloring or activity books church brochures and directories (if available) 3" x 5" index cards staplers Preparation: With the help of your rector or church secretary (or one or two group members), gather materials about your church. You may need to copy some of these materials to have enough to go around. Directions: 1. Explain to your group that they will be designing and assembling Welcome Kits to be given to new members of the church. The kits will contain more items if a new family has children. 2. Ask each group member to write a paragraph about or make a list of the things they like about their church. They should copy them over or type and print them out. Make multiple copies or to save printing paper, put several lists/paragraphs on the same page to be cut apart. 3. Next, if the church does not have a brochure for the public, put together a list of important information people need to know: clergy names, church address, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, hours, times of services, other available services (like child care, day care, chapel services, etc.). If possible, include a list of the available ministries (Outreach, Christian Education, Lay Eucharistic Ministers, Pastoral Care Group, etc.) and the names of the contacts for these groups. 8 LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 ACTIVITY
4. Include a welcoming prayer, such as: You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but citizens together with the saints and members of the household of God (Ephesians 2:19). 5. Assemble the kits, making sure to include crayons and coloring or activity books for children in some of them. Place all of the items in a clear gift bag; tie with ribbon. 6. What other items might be included in a Welcome Kit? a map of the church s interior a copy of a favorite story (for children) a list of popular events or activities coming up a coupon book for things such as a church tour, an hour of babysitting, a car wash, etc. 9 LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 ACTIVITY continued
BREAKING NEWS: JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM! Participants write a script, act out and film the breaking news story of Jesus entering the city of Jerusalem to the acclaim of the residents. Note: This activity will require two sessions. video camcorder or digital camera with video capabilities computer with printer (if possible) notepads and pens or pencils optional: assorted costume pieces Directions: 1. Jesus entering Jerusalem caused quite a stir amongst the residents as well as the unhappy politicians who felt threatened by his presence. Imagine that you are part of the team covering this breaking news. Write a brief script and film the scene. 2. A script is not required; all that is needed is a basic outline so that all involved know the order of events. Adlibbing is encouraged! Then, play it back for all to enjoy. 3. Cast of characters: news anchor news reporter(s) at the scene cameraperson Jesus townspeople disciples town official (who is upset about Jesus arrival) 4. Suggested outline (Note: Group members are welcome to write their own outline, but here is a possibility): News anchor interrupts regular broadcasting to tell of this event. Reporter at the scene gives an overview of what s going on. Reporter interviews Jesus, a disciple or two, some of the residents, a politician. News anchor speaks on the phone with a witness to the event. Reporter interviews Jesus about why he is there and what he hopes to accomplish. News anchor wraps up the story and makes a final comment. Close: Play back the video and invite comments. If time and willingness permit, edit (if necessary) for viewing by the congregation! 10 LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 ACTIVITY
MAKING A PASCHAL CANDLE Participants make their own Paschal candles for use at home or in the church. This project involves all the members of the group and truly sparks their creative juices. It s also a great way to involve other family members. Note: Planning for this activity needs to take place a few weeks in advance if supplies are to be ordered. large white pillar candle (preferably dripless), at least 24" tall. (Taller candles allow for more decorations.) steady holder for the candle sheets of decorating wax, assorted colors waxed paper matting knives (be very careful!) plastic knives or heavy duty toothpicks, for cutting/engraving wax designs list of stories or events to be depicted optional: hair dryer to warm up wax sheets if hard Note: Candles can be ordered at: www.lonestarcandlesupply.com. Decorating wax and pens may be ordered through http://www.hearthsong.com, www.hearthsong.com or www.atoygarden.com. Examples of Paschal candles can be found at www.ehow.com. Directions: 1. From the sheets of colored wax, carve depictions of characters and events leading up to the celebration of Easter 2. Place the carved art pieces on and around the candle. 3. The sheets of wax are usually very easy to work with and carve. No glue is necessary to stick them to the candle, but you may want to warm the pieces to be applied slightly with a hair dryer (on low). 4. Create a more traditional candle which includes the Greek Alpha and Omega symbols, or let your imaginations guide you in portraying the story of Abraham, Moses, the Israelites, the Pharaoh and more. 5. This activity typically takes 3-4 sessions to complete. The finished candle should be on display for Easter Vigil and Easter. 11 LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 craft
MAKING PALM CROSSES Group members make palm crosses for members of the congregation to mark the beginning of Holy Week. palm fronds, divided into long, narrow strips that are easy to fold copies of the Palm Cross Pattern (p. 13), 1 per participant large basket Preparation: Ask the rector or the person in charge of floral arrangements for your church for a supply of palm fronds. Have your group members split them into manageable strips. Make sure they all know how to make the crosses. Use the time during your session to practice making them or to begin making a store of the crosses (they are very popular and will sell out in a hurry). Directions: 1. See the pattern on page 13 for simple step-by-step directions. 2. Make palm crosses and place them in the basket for distribution to the congregation. 12 LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 craft
HOW TO MAKE PALM CROSSES 13 LESSON 25 JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Weaving Our Faith, YEAR 1 CRAFT CONTINUED