Sydneysiders invited to message of openness with Palm Sunday celebration

Sydneysiders will witness a Palm Sunday celebration in Circular Quay this weekend to celebrate the beginning of Holy Week as Wesley Mission recreates Jesus Christ’s entry into Jerusalem.

A momentous event in the Christian calendar and the beginning of Easter, Palm Sunday is the start of Jesus’ final journey towards the cross and His crucifixion, which took place the following Friday, now known as Good Friday.

This Sunday’s event will feature a parade of song and waving palms and includes a series of multicultural contributions. Korean drummers, Indonesian dancers, Tongan and Samoan singers will perform, culminating in a multi-lingual version of the popular song, How Great is our God.

Wesley Mission CEO the Rev Keith Garner said the procession had built momentum over the 15 years it has been happening.

“Our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus Christ. It’s the beginning and end of our story. Jesus’ sacrificial love revealed on the cross sends a simple yet powerful message to all — you matter to God. The procession and celebration are a symbol of this,” said Garner who acknowledges that the days leading up to Jesus’ death were filled with deep sadness and fear, similar to many of the pains felt by people in society today. As such he said Christians are called to have a spirit of openness, reaching out to support those in our community who hurt.

It is said that crowds joyfully scattered palms and their coats in front of Jesus Christ as he rode into Jerusalem, giving Him an entry worthy of rulers who typically arrived on chariots, not a donkey as he did that first Palm Sunday. Despite Jesus knowing that the journey would lead Him to a cross the following Friday, Sunday is marked as one of joy as people remember His welcome and the hope those attending had in His presence.

“Palm Sunday reminds us of Jesus Christ’s care for all. It calls for the end of racial divisions and inspires us to love in service of others. This weekend’s event will unite people from every part of our city, and we’re sure Circular Quay visitors will appreciate it. The fanfare will embody the passion of believers, hopefully encouraging more open conversations around the positives of faith in our community,” said Garner.

Passers-by and those unfamiliar with the Christian faith are invited to join the compelling and colourful festivities. The event won’t include a biblical talk but rather a celebration of hope and a series of energetic Easter expressions.

“We welcome all to join in and experience the meaningful journey of Easter,” Garner added.

Event details:

When:              Sunday the 14 of April at 3.15 pm

Where:            The corner of Phillip and Alfred Street, under the Cahill Expressway. It will then move along Circular Quay’s eastern promenade to the Sydney Opera House, before returning to its starting location.

Who:                People from all walks of life celebrating Easter