Elgin Resident Reflects on Palm Sunday and Holy Week

Anita Onarecker shares insights on the events of Jesus' last week before crucifixion.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 12:00pm

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In this column, Elgin resident and author Anita Onarecker reflects on the significance of Palm Sunday and the events of Holy Week leading up to Easter. She encourages readers to focus on what Jesus did, knew, and chose during that pivotal time, noting that while it was a dark and confusing period for his followers, "Sunday is coming!"

Why it matters

Palm Sunday and Holy Week are important Christian observances that commemorate the final days of Jesus' life and ministry before his crucifixion and resurrection. Onarecker's reflections provide spiritual insight and encourage readers to thoughtfully consider the events and meaning of this sacred time.

The details

Onarecker describes the key events of Jesus' last week, including his triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the cleansing of the temple, the Olivet discourse, the Last Supper, his arrest, trial, and crucifixion on Good Friday. She notes that while it was a dark and confusing time for Jesus' followers, they should remember his words of comfort and the promise that "Sunday is coming!"

  • Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, the week before Easter.
  • Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem occurred on Palm Sunday in A.D. 33.
  • The events of Holy Week, including Jesus' arrest, trial, and crucifixion, took place in April A.D. 33.

The players

Anita Onarecker

An Elgin resident, author of 'Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge', and minister to women and adults who earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.

Jesus

The central figure of Christianity, who was crucified in Jerusalem during the events of Holy Week in A.D. 33.

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What they’re saying

“Let not your heart be troubled...”

— Jesus

What’s next

Onarecker recommends watching the documentary "Who Is the Man of the Shroud?" by Dr. Jeremiah Johnson to learn more about the significance of Jesus' crucifixion.

The takeaway

While the events of Holy Week were dark and confusing for Jesus' followers at the time, Onarecker encourages readers to remember the comfort and promise found in Jesus' words, and to look forward to the joy of Easter Sunday and the hope of the Resurrection.