Director of Identity 

Holy Week

Six days before the Passover, when the Lord came into the city of Jerusalem, the children ran to meet him; in their hands they carried palm branches and with a loud voice cried out:

Hosanna in the highest! Blessed are you, who have come in your abundant mercy! 

John 12:12-13

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week and begins with Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem during the Jewish Passover celebration. He was given a hero’s welcome by the people, who had heard of his miracles and regarded him as the leader who would deliver them from the domination of the Roman Empire. They carried palm branches, a traditional symbol of victory, and spread them in the streets before him, shouting ‘‘Hosanna, glory to God".

O gates, lift high your heads; grow higher, ancient doors. Let him enter, the king of glory! Who is this king of glory? He, the Lord of hosts, he is the king of glory. Psalm 24:9-10

Hosanna in the highest! Blessed are you, who have come in your abundant mercy!

The gates were opened for Jesus, He was welcomed into the city, and He was greeted by a crowd longing for Him to deliver them from fear and to bring them hope and freedom. For this reason, Palm Sunday is a time where many churches and community organisations highlight the plight of refugees and displaced people, focusing on the Gospel themes of mercy, freedom and welcoming that are so present during Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem. Over the weekend, in cities and towns all around Australia (and online) there will be a series of actions, rallies, vigils, petitions and prayer services that will challenge governments and leaders around the world to do more to protect and care for refugees, asylum seekers and displaced peoples. It will also be a time for us to reflect upon the small every-day things we can do together as Gospel people, to become more welcoming, merciful and kind, as we experience Jesus’ example of courage and sacrifice that is at the heart of the Easter Story. 

Refugee Rally

On Saturday April 9, 12.00 pm – 2.00 pm the Tassie Nannas, Tasmanian Asylum Seeker Support, Australian Refugee Action Network and the Tasmania Branch of Amnesty International Australia will be hosting a 'Lives in Limbo' installation on Parliament Lawns, Salamanca. Cardboard cut-out figures representing refugees held in detention by the Australian Government will be placed on the lawns and a petition to the Australian government asking for the release of all refugees will be available for signing. 

Similar actions are being held throughout Australia on or near Palm Sunday; further details can be found here.