MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The Basilica of Saint Mary will celebrate Palm Sunday of Our Lord’s Passion and the beginning of Holy Week March 29.

Liturgies begin with fanfare and festivity to model Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem, where he was greeted warmly by followers who laid palms in his path. Hundreds of people will gather on the Basilica’s plaza prior to the 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Masses to process into the Basilica with their own palm branches. 

After processing, the liturgy transitions from solemn to somber as we start Holy Week – the week leading up to Easter.

The most important days of Holy week, known as the Sacred Triduum, begin with Holy Thursday on April 2 and continue with Good Friday April 3, Holy Saturday April 4, and Easter Sunday April 5. Nearly 5,000 people will join in this sacred celebration at The Basilica.