2026 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 embodied that story in our own city.
On Sunday, March 29, we gathered in downtown Nashville at First Lutheran Church and processed together to the State Capitol Complex. With palms in hand, clergy in purple stoles, banners raised, and songs and prayers on our lips, we offered a serious, prayerful, and determined witness.
We paused at two locations along the route—the Fred D. Thompson Federal Building and the William Snodgrass Tennessee Tower Plaza near the Capitol. At these stops, we will take time for brief reflections, scripture, prayer, and song 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 was a nonviolent, prayerful public witness. Our tone was one of lament and hope—clear, faithful, and grounded in love of neighbor. Speakers reflected the diversity of our community, especially those most directly impacted by current policies. People of faith and conscience walked, prayed, sang, and stood together for justice in our time.
Palm Sunday Witness in the News
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.
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Free 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.
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The full witness will last approximately 90 minutes, including the procession and two brief stops for prayer, song, and reflection.
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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.
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Comfortable walking shoes
Water
Palm branches (if you have them; some will be available)
Clergy should brings stoles and wear collars
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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.
Church vans with a limited number of seats also will be available for those who would have difficulty walking in the procession.
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If you are unable to walk between sites but want to participate, we can provide transportation for a limited number of people from site-to-site. You can RSVP for transportation by clicking here
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If you bring a sign, please bring one that is nonviolent and in harmony with the call to respect all of God’s children.
