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Smithfield landmarks provide the backdrop for re-enactment of events that led to Easter Centenary United Methodist Church hosted the spectacle and provided the bulk of the volunteers that made it happen, and yet it was a community event that included spectators and volunteers from other congregations. |
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In the opening scene outside on Second Street, GARY RIDOUT – the re-enactment's director (and a Disciple as well) – exhorts the throng to rally behind Jesus in a triumphant entry into Jerusalem on what is remembered as Palm Sunday. |
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 The Last Supper was staged in the Centenary Church sanctuary. |
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 Betrayed by Judas, Jesus is arrested as he and the Disciples exit the church. |
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 Caiaphas, one of the Sanhedrin's harshest judges – played by Bob Spence – angrily grills Jesus – played by Connor Lee – about who he claims to be. |
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 Pilate – played by Judge Tom Lock – asks the crowd gathered inside the Courthouse what should he do with this Jesus. "Crucify him!" they shout. |
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 The Crucifixion scene is staged outside the church beneath the cross and flame logo that marks the Methodist denomination. |
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 "He is not here, for he has been raised from the dead," proclaims the angel – played by Mike Bailey – at the Empty Tomb. Will Harris and Banks Gaskins are the guards. |
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 Returning to the present day, spectators join Lisa Sumpter, Barbara Heard, and Brian Bochicchio in singing "Oh Happy Day" as the two-hour journey through Holy Week comes to a close.
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RETURN TO THE SMITHFIELD WEEKLY SUN FRONT PAGE |
