by Mr. BJ Gonzalvo
For the 10th year this past Lenten Season, minus the two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the parishioners of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Bothell, Washington, once again produced and performed the Passion of the Christ play. Dozens of lay people, all volunteers, dedicated their time and talent to making the production phenomenal, beautiful, and heart-felt. The cast and crew’s multicultural vibrancy was on full display; some even got to speak their lines in their own native languages. Several members of the parish’s Filipino community got to perform and share their talents as well as their faith.
Amelyn Mactal, who played Mary, the Mother of Jesus, said: “At first, I wanted to participate in the Passion of Christ because I wanted to help showcase the diverse talents within St Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish and to help represent the constantly active involvement of the Filipino community. I also chose to participate as Mary to help portray the emotions she felt for her son. However, as we went through the rehearsals, I felt that it wasn’t just a simple act of acting. It grew in my heart and mind that I had the responsibility to express the love and devotion that Mary had for her son. I felt that we, the actors, needed to make sure the audience felt and understood the real sacrifices Jesus went through and the pain and sufferings of a mother witnessing it all. Being a part of the play was a humbling experience. It taught me a lesson that whatever suffering we experience in our lives, know that God is there for us and that he will help us endure.”
Richard Dayrit, who portrayed Judas in his very first acting role, said: “Portraying Judas was more than just a role; it was a journey that touched the depths of my soul. As I stepped into his Judas’ shoes, I felt the weight of betrayal and the anguish of his choices. Yet, amidst the darkness, I couldn’t help but feel the overwhelming presence of Jesus’ love, shining like a beacon of hope. Being part of the play helped me and hopefully others call to mind the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice and the boundless grace that flows from his unwavering love for us.”
The re-enactment is a very special and unique opportunity to share the faith and re-tell the story of Jesus’ final moments which is at the center of our faith.
Al Magbag, who volunteered for the first time to play the role of a Sanhedrin, said: “I felt a sense of renewal.”
Divina Dayrit, also a first-time volunteer, shares her personal reflections:
“Being able to participate in the Passion of Christ has been one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Growing up in the Philippines as a Catholic, I was deeply involved in religious rituals such as the “pabasa,” where we sang scriptures for 24 hours starting on Monday and ending on Friday. On Holy Friday, you would find me participating in the presentation, or “Prusisyon.” And on Black Saturday, I used to witness the carrying and nailing of the cross by devoted Catholics in Nueva Ecija.
For the past two years, I’ve been watching the Passion of Christ play, and it always deeply resonated with me. I made a promise to myself that the next time around, I would be a part of the production. So this year, I volunteered with my husband. During the audition, I emphasized that I was only interested in helping with set-up and preparation, not acting. However, they needed me in a non-speaking role as a “Woman of Jerusalem,” tasked with crying and delivering very brief lines with a group of women. Despite my initial reservations, I agreed, thinking I could handle it.
Throughout rehearsals, with the guidance of experienced actors in similar roles, I managed to deliver my lines and actions. However, on the day of the performance, anxiety overwhelmed me, especially knowing that many people would be watching. This marked my first-ever play, and to top it off, it was happening in the United States. Yet, as the play commenced, a sense of calm washed over me, transporting me back as though I truly inhabited the scene from 2000 years ago.
It’s truly indescribable to witness the entire play come together. My emotions overflowed when Jesus fell for the second time right before us. Following him to Calvary and witnessing his crucifixion, I wept uncontrollably, feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit envelop me, allowing me to empathize with the agony Jesus endured during his crucifixion.
My fellow actor subtly indicated that it was time for us to step away from the play and retreat to the back. Even as I walked away from the scene, tears continued to stream down my face. Despite my co-actor’s reassuring taps on my back and comforting words of “it’s ok, it’s ok,” I found it impossible to halt the flow of tears.
This play altered my perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of loving both God and my neighbor. Jesus sacrificed himself for us, aiming to save us from our sins. His ultimate desire is for everyone to join him in heaven.”
