7 May 2025, 10:23Joan MabbLondon, Greater London, England, United Kingdom
If Jesus Came in Modern Times: Barnet SDA Church Presents Contemporary Easter Drama
On Sabbath 19th March – Easter weekend – Barnet SDA Children and Youth Department presented If Jesus Came in Modern Times, written by Sister L. Imbrah. The play told the story of Christ and salvation in a modern context.
The surrounding community, friends, relatives, and members from other churches gathered to witness the shepherds and wise men interviewed by local reporters from the BBC – Bethlehem Broadcasting Corporation. Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount in an auditorium, and was later arrested by armed police. His trial was re-enacted in a courtroom with witnesses for both the defence and prosecution.
The congregation was invited to interact with the performance at pivotal points, including choosing between Barabbas or Jesus, and celebrating with the redeemed as they marched down the aisle. The production was interspersed with a soundtrack and songs that supported the narrative.
It wasn’t without its challenges. There wasn’t initially a young person available to play Jesus, but unexpectedly, a young man named Pedro from the Portuguese church visited one Sabbath. When asked if he liked acting, he agreed to participate. The use of the church hall changed at short notice, so rehearsals had to be conducted via Zoom. A key actor was unable to take part due to the performance date being rescheduled. Some essential computer information also became corrupted and had to be salvaged.
However, despite all of that, the message was preached through drama—standing in contrast to the typical imagery of bunny rabbits and chocolate eggs!
On Sabbath 19th March – Easter weekend – Barnet SDA Children and Youth Department presented If Jesus Came in Modern Times, written by Sister L. Imbrah. The play told the story of Christ and salvation in a modern context.
The surrounding community, friends, relatives, and members from other churches gathered to witness the shepherds and wise men interviewed by local reporters from the BBC – Bethlehem Broadcasting Corporation. Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount in an auditorium, and was later arrested by armed police. His trial was re-enacted in a courtroom with witnesses for both the defence and prosecution.
The congregation was invited to interact with the performance at pivotal points, including choosing between Barabbas or Jesus, and celebrating with the redeemed as they marched down the aisle. The production was interspersed with a soundtrack and songs that supported the narrative.
It wasn’t without its challenges. There wasn’t initially a young person available to play Jesus, but unexpectedly, a young man named Pedro from the Portuguese church visited one Sabbath. When asked if he liked acting, he agreed to participate. The use of the church hall changed at short notice, so rehearsals had to be conducted via Zoom. A key actor was unable to take part due to the performance date being rescheduled. Some essential computer information also became corrupted and had to be salvaged.
However, despite all of that, the message was preached through drama—standing in contrast to the typical imagery of bunny rabbits and chocolate eggs!
