Jerusalem 33 A.D. Reenacts Jesus’ Final Days
First United Methodist Church of Killeen present for the second year the miracles, trials, crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ during their “Jerusalem 33 A.D. Thursday and Friday, April 21 and 22, at Methodist Park, 3501 E. Elms, Killeen.
All interested persons are invited to witness this Passion play side-by-side with villagers, moneychangers, Roman soldiers, Judas, King Herod and Jesus himself.
The members of First Killeen have turned a small valley at the corner of Cunningham and East Elms roads in Killeen into the ancient City of Jerusalem and Christ ‘s last days.
“It’s not so much to proselytize or to make a statement, we just want to make the Easter story come alive,” Rev. Skip Blancett, senior pastor, told a reporter last year for the Killeen Daily Herald.
The live reenactment is divided into two separate events each evening. From 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday is the portrayal of the Last Supper and the betrayal and trial of Jesus. Then, on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m., the ancient community and visitors witness the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
David Archer, who has portrayed Christ for this event, says, “This is about touching people’s hearts and God’s glory.”
In the Killeen Daily Herald newspaper article, Taylor Short writes: “As guests filter into the simulated reality of Jerusalem, families of actors cook with cast iron over a fire while others share details about Passover and why they eat certain foods. Women chase small children by the creek and Roman guards, clad in gold-trimmed brown leather, warn guests to behave, standing brazenly with bright red capes and helmet plumes whipping in the wind.
“The townspeople whisper rumors about a man claiming to be the son of God before he walks into the village flanked by guards and gasping children. After Jesus saves a woman from being stoned to death and declares his knowledge of the betrayal at the Las Supper, Judas monologues about how we can all learn from Judas’ mistake. Soon, after a kiss from Judas identifies him, Jesus is arrested by the Romans.” Friday’s presentation features his crucifixion and resurrection.
Admission for the event is one can of food or a donation. All food collected will be given to the Killeen Food Care Center. Donations will go toward the cost of the event.
For more information on Jerusalem 33 A.D. or the church’s Walk Through Bethlehem during the Advent season, contact Terry Bierwirth at 254-634-6363 or terry.bierwirth@fumc-killeen.org.