Come, Let Us Praise the Living God

Palm Sunday

Sunday, April 13 | 8:30* and 11:00 a.m. 

Our Palm Sunday service sets the stage with a special liturgy from the Gospel of Luke, drawing us into the final days of Jesus’ life. The joyful hosannas of his triumphal entry soon give way to the somber reality of his suffering, reminding us that Christ’s victory comes after the most profound sacrifice. To bring the narrative to life, our youth and a guest donkey will join our pastors in leading the processional from the front porch. 

The guest donkey will be present to interact with during the Education Hour. 

Maundy Thursday 

Thursday, April 17  

5:30 p.m. Dinner | Courtenay Hall | 6:30 p.m. Service* | Sanctuary 

On Maundy Thursday, we will gather for dinner and worship to remember Jesus’ final meal with his disciples. Dr. Rusty Douglas, Pastor-in-Residence, will lead us in worship and recount Christ’s agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. Together, we will partake in the Lord’s Supper and see the depth of Christ’s love and his atoning sacrifice. 

A donation to cover the cost of dinner is requested. Childcare provided; please email Suzanne Di Piazza to let us know your child will be joining.

Good Friday 

Friday, April 18 | 12:00 p.m.* 

On Good Friday, we stand at the foot of the cross, reflecting on the seven last words of Christ. This is the day we reckon with the cost of our salvation, the innocent one bearing the weight of sin, the suffering servant who dies in our place. This solemn service is marked not only by scripture and silence but also by exceptional music that deepens our reflection. We are drawn into the mystery of Christ’s suffering and the immensity of his love through choral anthems, instrumental meditations, and congregational hymns. Yet even in the darkness of this day, we see the contours of hope: Christ does not lose to death but triumphs through it, breaking its power over us forever. 

This service lasts approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. Please come and go as needed. 

Easter Day

Sunday, April 20  

6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service | Sullivan Gardens 
8:00, 9:30*, 11:00 a.m. | Sanctuary 
7:00–10:45 a.m. Easter Breakfast | Courtenay Hall 

A joyful morning of worship proclaiming the heart of the Gospel: Jesus Christ is risen from the dead. The tomb is empty, and he promises new life for all creation. Once an instrument of suffering, the cross is transformed into a symbol of victory. Bring flowers from home to help “flower the cross” as you enter worship—a beautiful symbol of resurrection. 

Nursery care for ages 0–3 opens at 7:45 a.m. No Sunday School.

*Service will be livestreamed.

Lenten Vespers with Communion

Wednesdays through April 9 | 6:30 p.m. | Stanford Chapel

Join us for worship, hymns, and communion as we journey to the cross. These services, led by our choir, will prepare our hearts and minds during the season of Lent. We will come to the table each week for the Lord’s Supper and feast on God’s sustaining grace as we make our way to Holy Week.

Midweek Lunch & Study with Rusty Douglas 

Wednesdays through April 9 | 11:30 a.m. | Jones Session Room | Lunch is provided (donation)

Each Wednesday during Lent,  pastor-in-residence Dr. Rusty Douglas will lead a study on the Beatitudes entitled, “Turning the World Upside Down.” All are invited to attend as each week we explore a line of the Beatitudes and share in study together. Lunch will be provided (donation at the door). If you would like lunch, please let us know so we know how many to plan for. Contact Lynn Elliott.

The Presbyterian Slant Sunday School Series with Rusty Douglas 

Sunday through April 13 | 10:00–10:45 a.m. | Stanford Chapel

Curious about what makes Presbyterians unique? Join us for a six-week Sunday School series exploring The Presbyterian Slant—how our tradition shapes the way we worship, read the Bible, understand theology, view history, trust in God’s providence, and celebrate the sacraments. Each week, pastor-in-residence Dr. Rusty Douglas will lead us as we dive into a key aspect of Presbyterian belief and practice, with engaging discussions and insights from Scripture and church history.

Honor a Loved One with Easter Flowers | Due April 11 

As we celebrate the triumph of Christ’s resurrection, we invite you to honor or remember loved ones through a gift to the Flower Fund. These contributions help adorn our Sanctuary with beautiful floral arrangements on Easter Day, reflecting the joy and new life we proclaim in Christ. The names of those being honored or remembered will be printed in the Easter morning bulletin. 

To make a dedication, you can pick up a form from the narthex or Hospitality Center, or submit your dedication online. The last day to submit is April 11.

Easter Festival

Sunday, April 13 at 3:30 p.m. on the Front Fields
Egg hunt begins at 4:00 p.m.

At First Presbyterian Church of Nashville, we love to play! Through Jesus’ resurrection, we are made new, and celebrating together is one way we express the joy we’ve found in Him. FPC invites all families to join us for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and the hope of Easter!