I found myself once again in Armenia during the Holy week (Avakh Shapat) the week that leads up to Easter. Staying in Etchmiadzin – the headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church – I visited several celebrations in and around the Mother Cathedral.  Palm Sunday marks the start of this important season. It not only refers to Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem but is also a celebration of spring and of the blessing of the children. Willow branches are blessed and distributed, a somewhat hilarious and chaotic moment and the branches are folded into crowns that are proudly worn and photographed. And it is always a good day to burn candles …

Palm Sunday 2011  and more Palm Sunday 2011

Pictures are taken in Etchmiadzin Armenia, 9 April 2017