WATANI International
17 April 2011
The photograph, captured by Nader Habib, depicts the widely popular custom of plaiting palm fronds to form attractive, festive shapes, the favourites among which are crosses and ‘hearts’. Children and grown-ups spend the eve of Palm Sunday joyously plaiting the palms to have them ready for the following day. Those who are not adept at plaiting may buy ready-plaited ones sold at church gates by young people who seize the opportunity to make a few pounds before Easter. Early morning on Palm Sunday sees the Coptic congregation joining in the day’s ritual ceremonious procession, chanting hymns and praises of rejoicing as they mark at the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem.