MURFREESBORO, TN — Thousands of people gathered at World Outreach Church over the weekend as the congregation kicked off its annual Spring Festival, marking one of the largest community faith events of the season in Middle Tennessee.
The opening weekend, held Saturday, March 28, brought crowds to the church’s campus on New Salem Highway for a day filled with worship, live music, food, and family-friendly activities. Worship leader Pat Barrett led music and performed a post-service concert, while Senior Pastor Allen Jackson delivered a message to attendees. The event also included baptisms, with individuals publicly professing their faith.
Dozens of food trucks lined the campus, and families participated in a wide range of activities before the crowd gathered together for a time of worship.
Church leaders say the celebration is just getting started.
World Outreach Church is now inviting the community back for its Easter Weekend Celebration, which will take place Friday, April 3 through Sunday, April 5. The multi-day event will feature both indoor and outdoor services, live worship music, and activities designed for all ages.
“It’s going to be an exciting Easter weekend, and we welcome the community to join us to be a part of it all,” said Pastor Allen Jackson. “All weekend we’ll be celebrating the hope we have because of Jesus’s death, burial and resurrection. You won’t want to miss it.”
The Easter celebration will include performances from nationally recognized Christian artists, including Charity Gayle on Friday evening, CAIN on Saturday night and Sunday morning, and The Katinas throughout the weekend. Outdoor worship concerts are scheduled following each service.
In addition to worship services, attendees can expect food trucks, family activities, and children’s programming. Special presentations for younger audiences will feature Miss PattyCake, Lil’ K Live with Kai, and Kidz Blitz, with programming available for children from birth through fifth grade.
Festivities will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with services starting at 6:00 p.m. Sunday’s celebration begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by a 9:30 a.m. service, with food trucks remaining on site through lunchtime.
The church is also hosting its Spring Learning Series during the same timeframe, offering exhibits and educational opportunities centered on America’s upcoming 250th anniversary and the role of faith in the nation’s founding. Guest speakers and additional programming will continue throughout the season.
Organizers emphasize that the event is free and open to the public, with no tickets required.
World Outreach Church, located at 1921 New Salem Highway, has grown significantly since its beginnings in the 1970s, when Pastor Jackson’s parents hosted early gatherings in their home. Today, the church serves more than 15,000 congregants and is known for its large-scale community events and outreach efforts across Middle Tennessee.
More information about the Easter Weekend Celebration and Spring events can be found at the church’s website.
