In this article we will take a look at the 30 of the best hymns for Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday, also known as Passion Sunday, marks the beginning of Holy Week and commemorates Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
It is a significant event in the Christian calendar and is traditionally celebrated with religious processions, the distribution of palm branches, and the singing of hymns. The use of traditional hymns during Palm Sunday services adds a sense of reverence and joy to the occasion, allowing worshippers to connect with the rich history and symbolism associated with this special day.
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Palm Sunday holds great significance in Christianity as it marks the start of the final week of Jesus Christ’s earthly life. According to the Gospels, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey while the crowds welcomed Him by waving palm branches and laying their cloaks on the ground. This event fulfilled the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9, which described the Messiah entering Jerusalem in this manner. The triumphal entry was a public declaration of Jesus’ identity as the long-awaited Messiah and set the stage for the events that would unfold during Holy Week, leading to His crucifixion and resurrection.
During the time of Jesus, Palm Sunday was also known as the Feast of the Passover, a significant Jewish holiday commemorating the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. The city of Jerusalem would have been bustling with pilgrims from all over, gathering to celebrate this important festival. The arrival of Jesus on Palm Sunday would have added to the excitement and anticipation in the city, as many believed that He was the promised Messiah who would deliver them from Roman oppression. The waving of palm branches and the laying of cloaks on the ground were acts of honor and homage, symbolizing the people’s recognition of Jesus as their King and Savior. This event not only had spiritual significance but also carried political implications, as it challenged the authority of both the religious leaders and the Roman rulers. Palm Sunday serves as a reminder of the hope and anticipation that surrounded Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem and the profound impact He had on the lives of those who witnessed His ministry.
Many churches sing “All Glory, Laud, and Honor” on Palm Sunday, because it echoes the crowd’s cry of “Hosanna” as Jesus entered Jerusalem. Other common hymns include “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” and “Ride On, Ride On in Majesty.” Whatever you choose, look for lyrics that celebrate Christ as King, yet also hint at the coming cross. Palm Sunday music should help worshipers move from joyful procession to a deeper reflection on Jesus’ journey toward His saving death and resurrection.
What kind of music is played in church on Palm Sunday?
Palm Sunday music often combines joyful “Hosanna” songs with more reflective pieces that look ahead to Holy Week. Many services begin with processional hymns featuring children or the congregation waving palm branches, then transition to songs about the cross and Christ’s obedience. Whether your church uses hymns, modern worship, or a blend, aim for music that exalts Jesus as the humble King, prepares hearts for Good Friday, and invites everyone to respond with praise and surrender.
What is a good opening song for a Palm Sunday service?
A strong opening song sets a tone of celebration as we remember Jesus’ triumphal entry. Traditional options include “All Glory, Laud, and Honor” or “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna.” Contemporary congregations might use songs like “Hosanna (Praise Is Rising)” or “King of Kings.” Choose something upbeat and congregational, ideally with a clear “Hosanna” or kingship theme, then follow it with Scripture reading and prayer so the congregation understands they are welcoming Christ, not just enjoying a parade.
What can I preach about on Palm Sunday?
Palm Sunday sermons often center on Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12). You might explore the contrast between the crowd’s expectations of a political king and the humble Messiah who comes to die. Themes like “The King Who Comes in Peace,” “Hosanna and the Cross,” or “When Expectations Meet God’s Plan” work well. Apply the message by asking how we welcome Jesus today—on His terms, not ours—and invite people to follow Him through Holy Week.
What is the most commonly sung hymn in many churches?
Across the Christian world, songs like “Amazing Grace,” “How Great Thou Art,” and “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” are among the most frequently sung hymns. While not specific to Palm Sunday, they fit almost any service because they exalt God’s mercy, greatness, and steadfast love. Including a familiar hymn on Palm Sunday can help visitors and long-time members alike participate fully, especially when paired with Scripture and teaching that connect the lyrics to Christ’s saving work during Holy Week.
What is the gospel reading for Palm Sunday?
Many churches read one of the accounts of Jesus’ triumphal entry—Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–40, or John 12:12–19. Some traditions also read a longer “Passion” narrative that covers the Last Supper, trial, and crucifixion. Whichever passage you choose, the heart of the Palm Sunday gospel is the same: Jesus enters Jerusalem as the promised King, gentle and riding on a donkey, fully aware that He is going to the cross to save His people from their sins.
Which hymns are based directly on the Psalms?
Many beloved hymns draw from the Psalms. “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” reflects Psalm 90, “The Lord’s My Shepherd” and “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” echo Psalm 23, and countless settings use Psalms 95, 100, and 103. For Palm Sunday, songs that reference Psalm 118 (“Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord”) are especially fitting. Using psalm-based hymns allows the congregation to sing the very words Jesus knew and prayed.
Should there be a recessional hymn on Palm Sunday?
A recessional hymn is not required, but it can send worshipers out with a clear focus. Some churches end with a joyful “Hosanna” song, while others choose a more meditative hymn that points toward the cross, such as “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” or “Lead Me to Calvary.” Consider the flow of Holy Week in your context: do you want to leave people rejoicing in the King’s arrival or quietly pondering the cost of His love?
What makes a good entrance theme song for Palm Sunday?
An entrance theme song should be singable, Scripture-rich, and clearly tied to Jesus’ kingship and humility. Look for lyrics that speak of “Hosanna,” “Blessed is He who comes,” or Christ riding into Jerusalem. Include children or a procession with palms if your space allows. The goal is not to stage a performance, but to help the entire congregation participate in welcoming Christ the King, recognizing that He comes not to conquer by force, but to save through the cross.
What scripture passages pair well with Palm Sunday worship?
Alongside the triumphal entry texts, helpful readings include Zechariah 9:9 (the prophecy of the humble King), Psalm 118 (with its “Hosanna” phrases), and Philippians 2:5–11, which describes Christ’s humility and exaltation. These passages show that Palm Sunday is part of a larger salvation story planned by God. Using them in calls to worship, readings, or sermons helps the congregation see how Old Testament promises, Jesus’ actions, and our present-day worship fit together.
What is the most touching gospel song to use around Palm Sunday?
The “most touching” song will depend on your congregation, but many find pieces like “The Old Rugged Cross,” “Were You There,” or “Here I Am to Worship” deeply moving during Holy Week. Choose songs that highlight Jesus’ love, sacrifice, and worthiness of our praise. Consider selecting one gospel song to repeat throughout the week so its message sinks in. Introduce it with a short testimony or Scripture, inviting worshipers to respond to the King who rode into Jerusalem for their salvation.
What color is appropriate for Palm Sunday in church?
In many liturgical traditions, red is used on Palm Sunday to symbolize both Christ’s kingship and the passion (suffering) that lies ahead. Some churches use purple, the standard color for Lent, to emphasize repentance and the coming cross. Whatever color you choose for paraments, banners, or clothing, let it serve the larger purpose of the day—helping worshipers reflect on Jesus as the humble, suffering King who rides into Jerusalem to lay down His life for the world.
George Hendricks is the founder and managing editor of Godsverse.org. He has written and published over 200 skit reviews, church resource guides, and Bible study articles. With a background in data-driven content strategy and digital publishing, George built Godsverse into one of the most comprehensive collections of church skit reviews and printable scripts online. When he's not writing, he's researching what churches actually need and figuring out how to deliver it.
