Liturgy for Palm Sunday
Introduction
The Liturgy of the Palms opens Holy Week with movement, noise, and hope. The crowd gathers, branches are lifted, and voices shout praise as Jesus enters Jerusalem. Yet even in celebration, the road ahead is already shadowed. Palm Sunday holds joy and tension together, inviting the church to walk with Christ not only in triumph, but in the costly path that leads to the cross.
This liturgy follows the Revised Common Lectionary for the Liturgy of the Palms (Year A) and is shaped by themes of praise, procession, humility, and faithful following.
The Lectionary Readings at a Glance
The readings for the Liturgy of the Palms proclaim joyful praise while pointing toward the deeper meaning of Jesus’ kingship.
Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29 is a song of thanksgiving and procession. The psalm invites the people to enter the gates with praise, celebrating God’s steadfast love and rejoicing in the salvation God brings.
In Matthew 21:1–11, Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey, fulfilling the promise of a humble king. The crowds shout "Hosanna" and spread branches along the road, welcoming Jesus as the one who comes in the name of the Lord, even as their expectations remain incomplete.
Together, these texts invite the church to praise Christ openly while preparing to follow him beyond the moment of celebration.
Call to Worship
One: Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
All: Hosanna in the highest heaven!
One: Open to us the gates of righteousness.
All: We will enter and give thanks to the Lord.
One: Jesus comes to us in humility and peace.
All: Let us welcome Christ with joy and faithful hearts.
Opening Prayer
Faithful God,
With palms lifted and voices raised, we welcome Christ among us. As we rejoice in his coming, open our hearts to the deeper journey of this holy week. Teach us to follow Jesus not only in moments of praise, but in paths of humility, obedience, and love. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Prayer of Confession
Merciful God,
We confess that our praise is often louder than our faithfulness. We welcome Jesus with joy, yet hesitate when his way challenges us. We long for salvation without sacrifice and celebration without cost. Forgive us, O God. Strengthen our trust and lead us to follow Christ with courage and truth. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
Hear the good news: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)
In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and invited to walk the way of salvation.
Thanks be to God!
Prayer for Illumination
God of glory,
As your Word is read and proclaimed, open our ears to hear your truth. Let the shouts of praise give way to deeper listening, that we may follow Christ with understanding and faith. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Prayers of the People
God of mercy and majesty,
We praise you for sending Christ to walk among us. We pray for your church, that it may follow Jesus with humility and courage through this holy week. We pray for a world longing for peace and justice, that Christ’s reign may take root in hearts and communities. We pray for all who suffer, that your saving love may draw near. Lead us from joyful procession into faithful discipleship, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Closing Prayer
Eternal God,
You have welcomed us into the joy of Christ’s coming. As we go from this place, keep us close to him in the days ahead. May our praise become faithful following, and our joy deepen into love shaped by the cross. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
