Catholic and Protestant communities celebrate Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of Holy Week. (Orthodox Christians observe Palm Sunday and Easter according to a different calendric cycle). Palm Sunday worship services recall the gospel story of Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem where he was acclaimed by crowds who placed palm branches on the ground before him as he rode a colt, an action interpreted as fulfilling prophecies related to the Davidic Messiah. The entrance into Jerusalem begins his journey to the cross. Palm Sunday services often include a blessing of palm leaves, a reading of the story of the Passion of Jesus (recalling his suffering and death), and processions in and out of the church with palm branches. Palm Sunday is a reminder for Christians to welcome Jesus into their lives and a time of recommitment to following him, no matter what the cost.