Palm Sunday Witness

in Solidarity with Our Neighbors

On Palm Sunday, we remember Jesus’ public procession into Jerusalem—a march of courage, humility, and holy disruption in the face of empire. This year, we will embody that story in our own city.

Join us in downtown Nashville on Sunday, March 29 at 2:00 p.m as we gather at First Lutheran Church and process together to the State Capitol. With palms in hand, clergy in purple stoles, banners raised, and songs and prayers on our lips, we will offer a serious, prayerful, and determined witness.

We will pause at three locations along the route—including the Fred D. Thompson Federal Building, the Department of Human Services, and Beth Harwell Plaza near the Capitol—we will pause for brief reflections, scripture, and prayer focused on three calls of Jesus:

  • Free the Oppressed – Standing against rising authoritarianism, racism, and Christian nationalism, and proclaiming Christ’s justice and dignity for all.

  • Feed the Hungry & Care for the Sick – Lifting up the harm caused by cuts to food assistance and healthcare, and remembering Jesus’ call to feed and heal.

  • Welcome the Stranger – Bearing witness to the Gospel call to compassion for immigrants and refugees.

This will be a nonviolent, prayerful public witness. Our tone is lament and hope—clear, faithful, and grounded in love of neighbor. Speakers will reflect the diversity of our community, especially those most directly impacted by current policies.

The entire event will last approximately 90 minutes, including the procession. We invite people of faith and conscience to walk, pray, sing, and stand together for justice in our time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • We will gather at First Lutheran Church (113 8th Ave. S., near 8th & Broadway) in downtown Nashville. The event will begin there with a brief orientation and litany of lament before we process toward the Capitol.

  • Parking is available at First Lutheran Church in their lots at the corner of 8th Ave. and McGavock). There are also nearby paid lots and street parking throughout the downtown area. If possible, consider carpooling or riding the bus.

  • The full witness will last approximately 90 minutes, including the procession and three brief stops for prayer, song, and reflection.

  • This is a nonviolent, prayerful public witness rooted in the Christian tradition of Palm Sunday. Our tone is serious, lamenting, hopeful, and grounded in love of neighbor. We are committed to peaceful presence—no violent rhetoric or actions.

    • Comfortable walking shoes

    • Water

    • Palm branches (if you have them; some will be available)

    • Clergy should brings stoles and wear collars

  • The route is approximately 45 minutes of walking on downtown sidewalks with several stopping points. If you are unable to walk the full procession, you are welcome to join at any of the designated stopping locations or gather at the final stop near the Capitol.

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