An annual tradition on the grounds of St. Joseph Parish in Hanover, the Passion Play put on by the Hispanic Catholic community offers a stunning and spiritual reflection every year on Good Friday.
Whether in springlike weather or against the chill of rain, the community annually produces this labor of love, complete with music, elaborate sets, costumes, props and emotional acting.
Beginning in the woods of the parish’s picnic grounds, the play begins with Jesus’ triumphant entrance into Jerusalem and presents scenes from the Last Supper, the Agony in the Garden and His trial. After the scourging and the placement of the crown of thorns, the Stations of the Cross commence, as the crowd of performers mingle with the audience and follow Jesus as He carries His cross to Calvary.
The emotionally-stirring presentation concludes with the body of Jesus being taken down from the cross, wrapped in linens, carried in procession to the church sanctuary and placed before the altar, where the parish’s Good Friday service begins.
The public is invited to watch the live production each year; the audience becomes part of the crowd during Jesus’ sacrifice on Calvary in this Holy Week tradition.
(Photos by Jen Reed, The Catholic Witness.)
By Jen Reed, The Catholic Witness
