Holy Week observance began March 20 at First United Methodist Church of Troy as the church held Palm Sunday services. Children lined up outside the church and carried palm leaves into the sanctuary and laid them on the altar at the beginning of the service in celebration of Christ’s final entrance into Jerusalem.

Pastor Steve Winton said Holy Week is the time between Palm Sunday when the Jewish crowd cheered wildly for Jesus calling him “Lord” and Good Friday when many of the same people yelled, “Crucify Him!” It is a time of anticipation as the Resurrection approaches.

Monday through Thursday the church held worship services and provided lunches. A different speaker led each of the worship services.

A combination of Holy Communion and a dramatic musical presentation by the chancel choir commemorated Maundy Thursday.

Saturday will be a fun time as the children’s ministries will sponsor an Easter egg hunt at the home of Ben and Joan Beard. Activities begin at 2 p.m.

Holy Week will conclude with two Easter services at 8:30 and 11 a.m. in celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Children will decorate a cross with flowers at the beginning of the 11 a.m. service.

First United Methodist Church is located at 213 North Three Notch Street in Troy.