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The Greatest Story Ever Told Cast

Mary Mother of God Gabriel Joseph Angel Peter Judas Jesus

John Disciples (9) Father Bride Groom Lepers (10) Adulteress Men (2)

Mary Martha Lazarus Pharisee Mary Magdalene High Priests (2) Soldiers (2)

Pilate Pilate’s Wife Servant Girl Simon Veronica Women (28)

Scenes: (Opening) -Burning in My Soul Scene 1(Mary and Gabriel; Joseph and the Angle) -You Never Let Go Scene 2 (Recruiting Disciples) -A New Hallelujah Scene 3 (Wedding at Canna) -Undignified Scene 4 (The 10 Lepers) -The Temple and the Lepers Scene 5 (The Stoning) Scene 6 (Lazarus) Scene 7 (Mary Magdalene) -Lord I Need You Scene 8 (Judas’ Betrayal) Scene 9 (Last Super) Scene 10 (Garden at Gethsemane) -Whom Then Shall I Fear Scene 11 (Pilate) Scene 12 (Peter Denies Jesus) Scene 13 (Crucifixion) -See His Love -Blessed Redeemer Scene 14 (Closing) -Because He Lives

Burning in My Soul (Matt Maher) Soloists (and later crowd) enter from various aisles in the church, or from behind the stage. They are not yet the characters they are about to portray, for the moment they are a group of excited teenagers getting ready to put on a show. The women’s headscarves are not yet covering their hair and instead are draped around their necks/over their shoulders, soldiers wear their crowd clothing, but carry their

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helmets, Lazarus sports a just a few bandages, Pontius Polite, his wife, the High Priests, and the Bride and Groom also have tokens of the characters they will later become. The only one we do not yet see is Jesus. The tone is very excited. The soloist enter from the back of the church, but they do not make it more than halfway to the alter before the entire crowd enters. Burning 1: There is power Burning 2: Power Burning 3: Here in this hour Burning 4: This hour Burning 2: We’re all together Burning 1: Together Burning 4: Waiting here Burning 1,2,3, & 4: as one The crowd filters on, they are excited, they rush into the aisles, running to each other to celebrate with one another. Crowd: Whoa, Hear the sound from Heaven Whoa, A mighty rushing wind Whoa, We're calling for revival The crowd pauses where they are and all look upwards. God let Your fire fall again The crowd surges onto the alter. Burning 1: It's burning in my soul... All: Burning in my soul

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Men: All Your sons Women: and Your daughters All: Telling the tales of their Father Seeing the signs and the wonders The Kingdom of God Whoa, Hear the sound from Heaven Whoa, A mighty rushing wind Whoa, We're calling for revival God let Your fire fall again It’s burning in my soul Burning in my soul Men: I cannot contain it Women: This fire inside Men: I cannot contain it Women: So let it shine All: I cannot contain it This light of mine It's burning in my soul . . . The crowd fades off and leaves Mary Mother of God asleep in the middle of the alter.

Scene 1 Enter Gabriel who stands above Mary Mother of God. Gabriel (Softly) Mary Mary Mother of God continues sleeping. Gabriel (Slightly louder)

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Mary of Nazareth Mary still sleeps. Gabriel (Shouting) Mary! Mary Mother of God jerks awake. Mary Mother of God What is it? Who are you? Gabriel I am an angel, sent from the Lord Mary Mother of God Why would the Lord send an angel to me? Gabriel You are honored very much, you are a favored woman, the Lord is with you Mary Mother of God still looks freighted. Gabriel Mary, do not be afraid, you have found favor with God. See! You are to become a mother and have a son. You are to give Him the name Jesus Mary Mother of God How will this happen? Gabriel The Holy Spirit will come on you. The power of the Most High will cover you. The holy Child you give birth to will be called the Son of God. Mary Mother of God I am willing to be used of the Lord, let his happen to me as you have said Gabriel exits and Mary Mother of God stands, she crosses stage left and meets Joseph as he enters. Mary Mother of God Joseph, I have something of great importance to tell you. I am going to bear a child, a son Joseph But how can this be? You and I are to be married and this child cannot be

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mine. This is very upsetting, Mary Before Mary Mother of God can explain Joseph hurries away and sit on the stage right alter steps. Mary Mother of God exits stage left discouraged. Joseph She bears a child that is not mine? For this I could have her put to death! I do not believe it would be right to do such a thing, but I am no longer confident in this marriage. I will divorce her quietly. Joseph puts his head down and an angel appears. Angel Joseph Joseph Who are you? Angel I am an angel sent from the Lord. Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is the Holy Spirit Joseph What? Angel Mary’s child is a child of God! Joseph How can that be? Angel The Lord works in mysterious ways The Angel exits stage right and Joseph watches Mary Mother of God re-enter from stage left. She kneels to pray and begins singing.

You Never Let Go (Matt Redman) Mary Mother of God: Even though I walk through the valley Of the shadow of death Your perfect love is casting out fear And even when I'm caught in the middle Of the storms of this life I won't turn back, I know You are near

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And I will fear no evil For my God is with me And if my God is with me Whom then shall I fear? Whom then shall I fear? Oh no, You never let go Through the calm and through the storm Oh no, You never let go In every high and every low Oh no, You never let go Lord, You never let go of me Joseph walks toward Mary Mother of God as he sings, she hears and stands. Joseph: And I can see a light that is coming For the heart that holds on A glorious light beyond all compare And there will be an end to these troubles But until that day comes We'll live to know You here on the earth Joseph and Mary both look down to her stomach, then back up to each other. And I will fear no evil For my God is with me And if my God is with me Whom then shall I fear? Whom then shall I fear? Mary Mother of God & Joseph: Oh no, You never let go Through the calm and through the storm Oh no, You never let go In every high and every low Oh no, You never let go Lord, You never let go of me Mary Mother of God and Joseph embrace then exit stage left.

Scene 4 The crowd enters and sits around in groups conversing. Women 1, 2, and 3 sit in one group, women 4, 5, and 6 in another, women 7 and 8 in another, and women 9

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and 10 in another. Woman 1 Have you heard? Woman 2 Heard what? Woman 1 The news! Woman 3 What news? Woman 1 There’s a man who claims to be a prophet in town Woman 4 He claims to be the Son of God Woman 5 The Son of God? Woman 4 Yes, he claims he is the Son of God. He asks young men to follow Him Woman 6 Do you think he speaks the truth? Woman 4 I never claimed to be the prophet Woman 7 He says what? Woman 8 He says He is the messiah, the savior Woman 7 What is his name? Woman 9 His name is Jesus, Jesus of Nazareth Woman 10 The son of Mary and Joseph?

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Woman 9 Yes, and it seems many people are very excited about Him Peter enters excitedly and the crowd turns to look at him. He begins to sing to them. As he sing Judas enters from the other side of the alter and joins him.

A New Hallelujah (Michael Smith) Peter: Can you hear, there's a new song Breaking out from the children of freedom Every race and every nation Sing it out sing a new Hallelujah Judas: Let us sing love to the nations Bringing hope of the grace that has freed us Make Him known and make Him famous Sing it out sing the new Hallelujah Jesus enters from the narthex, he singing as he walks down the center isle of the church. As he sings the crowd on the alter stands to see him. Jesus: Arise Let the church arise Let love reach to the other side Alive, come alive Let the song arise Jesus greets the disciples then moves up the center isle onto the alter, the disciples gather in front of the steps of the alter listening to him. Jesus I am the Son of God, the Messiah, the Savior! Come with me, and I will make you fishers of men! Crowd: Sing it out sing the new hallelujah. The disciples join Jesus on the alter. The scene fades into a wedding.

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Scene 5 The Bride and Groom stand in the center of the alter, the Groom steps on a glass and kisses the Bride and the crowd cheers. Father This is a most joyous occasion! My son has married! Everyone, please, eat, drink and celebrate this day with us! The crowd cheers as the music starts and they begin to clap along.

Undignified (Matt Redman) Groom: I will dance I will sing To be mad For my King Nothing Lord is hindering This passion in my soul Bride: I will dance I will sing To be mad For my King Nothing Lord is hindering This passion in my soul Bride & Groom: And I'll become Even more undignified than this Some would say its foolishness But I'll become Even more undignified than this The crowd has formed a circle around the Bride and Groom and dance around them. Undignified 1: I will dance I will sing To be mad For my King Undignified 2: Nothing Lord is hindering This passion in my soul

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Undignified 3: I will dance I will sing To be mad For my King Undignified 4: Nothing Lord is hindering This passion in my soul Crowd: And I'll become Even more undignified than this Some would say its foolishness But I'll become Even more undignified than this Leave my pride by my side The crowd falls back as small groups come forward and dance. Undignified 1: La la la la la la Crowd: HEY! Undignified 2: La la la la la la Crowd: HEY! Undignified 3: La la la la la la Crowd: HEY! Undignified 4: La la la la la la Crowd: HEY! Undignified 1: La la la la la la The crowd weaves in and out of each other grasping and releasing hands. Crowd: And I'll become Even more undignified than this Some would say its foolishness But I'll become Even more undignified than this

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Leave my pride by my side Bride and Groom: It's all for You my Lord! The crowd cheers and falls back into chatting in small groups. Peter This wedding certainly is joyous! Judas Yes, but unfortunately the wine has almost run out Peter That would be a great embarrassment for the host! Disciple 1 We have to do something! Peter But what can we do? Disciple 1 Tell Mary, she will certainly also want to avoid the embarrassment of our host Peter catches the attention of a woman passing by. Peter Go and tell Mary the Mother of Jesus that the wine may soon run out Woman 11 crosses to Mary Mother of God. Woman 11 Mary, Peter says that the wine may soon run out Woman 12 That would be of great embarrassment to out hosts! Mary Mother of God Yes, it would Mary Mother of God crosses to Jesus. Mary Mother of God Son, they have no wine

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Jesus Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come Mary Mother of God Running out of wine would be a great embarrassment to our hosts. To suffer such a thing on their wedding day! Can you not help them? Jesus (to a server) Fill the jars with water The server exits. Mary Mother of God Thank you! Woman 12 There He is! That is the man who claims to be the Son of God! Woman 13 Does he have any proof? Has he performed any miracles? Woman 12 I have not heard of any such thing The server re-enters with a jug and a glass. Jesus Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast. The server pours the wine into the cup, tastes it, and turns to the Father, handing him the glass. Server Everyone servers the good wine first, and when the people have drunk freely, the poor wine. But you have saved the good wine until now! Woman 12 (overhearing) I thought there was no more wine The crowd exits and leaves Jesus alone on the alter.

Scene 6 Jesus is alone on the alter, he kneels and begins to pray. Lepers enter one by one to approach him.

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Leper 8 Jesus, Master, have pity on us! Leper 9 We are lepers, we are terribly sick and no one will care for us! Leper 10 Please, Lord, help us! The lepers enter from both sides of the stage, surrounding Jesus, he attempts to reach out to all of them, but as soon as he reaches one another one collapses and he rushes to their aid.

The Temple and the Lepers (Jesus Christ Superstar) Leper 1: See my eyes, I can hardly see. Leper 2: See me stand, I can hardly walk. Leper 3: I believe you can make me whole. Leper 4: See my tongue, I can hardly talk. Leper 5: See my skin, I'm a mass of blood. Leper 6: See my legs, I can hardly stand. Leper 7: I believe you can make me well. Leper 8: See my purse, I'm a poor, poor man. All Lepers: Will you touch, will you mend me Christ? Won't you touch, will you heal me Christ? Will you kiss, you can cure me Christ? Won't you kiss, won't you pay me Christ? Leper 9: See my eyes, I can hardly see. Leper 2: See me stand, I can hardly walk. Leper 3: I believe you can make me whole. Leper 4:

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See my tongue, I can hardly talk. Leper 5: See my skin, I'm a mass of blood. Leper 6: See my legs, I can hardly stand. Leper 7: I believe you can make me well. Leper 10: See my purse, I'm a poor, poor man. All Lepers: Will you touch, will you mend me Christ? Won't you touch, will you heal me Christ? Will you kiss, you can cure me Christ? Won't you kiss, won't you pay me Christ? Jesus Enough! Go! Show yourselves to the priests! You are cleansed! The lepers exclaim in joy and run behind the alter. Jesus breaths heavily, exhausted. After a moment Leper 1 runs back onstage and throws themself at Jesus’s feet. Leper 1 Thank you Lord! You have healed me, though I am a Samaritan! I am well, I am cured and it has been your doing! You are truly great and powerful! Thank you Lord, thank you for saving me! Jesus Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner? Rise and go; your faith has made you well Jesus helps Leper 1 to their feet and embraces them. Leper 1 exits the stage.

Scene 7 Man 1 and 2 enter dragging the adulteress; they are followed by the crowd who hold stones in their hands, the disciples also enter, standing apart from the crowd, on the upper portion of the alter. Adulteress No, please! No! Have mercy on me! Please! Man 1 and 2 throw the adulteress to the ground.

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Man 1 This woman has been caught in the very act of adultery! Man 2 According to the law, this gives us cause to stone her! The crowd cheers. Man 1 I see that Jesus, Son of Joseph, who claims to be a prophet and the Son of God is here Man 2 (to Jesus) Do you believe we should stone this woman? After all adultery is a sin Crowd Yes! What do you think? What does the Son of God think? etc. Woman 14 Will the messiah, the savior, allow this woman to be stoned? Woman 15 Will you save her? Crowd Will he? Will you allow her to be stoned? Will you save her? etc. The crowd continues to shout under the disciples. Disciple 2 What will he do? Disciple 3 He cannot excuse her; that would condone adultery, which is a great sin! Disciple 4 But he certainly cannot allow them to stone her! Peter He will find a way Jesus thinks for a moment, then walks to the Adulteress and helps her to her feet as the crowd is silenced. Jesus Let he who is without sin, cast the first stone

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The crowd stands for a moment and thinks. Then a man from the crowd walks to the center of the alter (in front of Jesus and the Adulteress) and gently places his stone on the ground. One by one the others in the crowd follow suit, then return to their places. The Adulteress slowly approaches the pile of stones and begins to sing. Jesus and the Adulteress embrace then she exits with the rest of the crowd, besides the disciples. Woman 16 runs onstage. Woman 16 Jesus! Come quickly! The one you love, your dear friend Lazarus, is sick! Jesus This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it

The disciples follow Jesus as he follows Woman 16 as she hurries off the alter and around the first section of the church. They return to the ramp by the old baptismal font. By the time they reach it a cloth covers the body of Lazarus within and grieving crowd blocks the body of Lazarus.

Scene 8 Jesus enters (followed by the disciples who join the grieving crowd) and embraces Mary and Martha. Mary Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask Jesus Your brother will rise again Martha I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day Jesus I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this? Martha Yes, Lord I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world Jesus

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Where have you laid him? Mary Come and see Mary leads Jesus to the side of the crowd. Jesus falls to the ground and weeps. Woman 17 See how he loved him! Woman 18 This man truly loved Lazarus! Woman 19 Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying? Jesus (kneeling) begins to pray. Jesus stands. Jesus Lazarus, come out! The crowd parts to reveal Lazarus, covered in bandages, standing up. The crowd reacts with shock and joy. Martha and Mary rush to embrace their brother. Jesus and Lazarus embrace. Woman 19 This man truly can perform miracles! Woman 17 Do you believe that he could really be the Son of God? The savior? The Messiah? Woman 18 How could any other man raise a soul from the dead? Pharisee (to Jesus) It is an incredible miracle you have performed here today. If you would like, you may dine at my house this evening The crowd moves to the side of the alter and brings on a table where some food is laid out.

Scene 9 Jesus and the Pharisee sit at the table. Mary Magdalene enters with oil.

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Woman 20 Mary Magdalene has come to meet Jesus! Look, she brings oil to anoint him! Woman 21 She is a woman of sin; will such a man allow her to anoint himself? Mary Magdalene kneels before Jesus and begins to sing.

Lord I Need You (Matt Maher) Mary Magdalene: Lord, I come, I confess Bowing here I find my rest Without You I fall apart You're the One that guides my heart Lord, I need You, oh, I need You Every hour I need You My one defense, my righteousness Oh God, how I need You Where sin runs deep Your grace is more Where grace is found is where You are And where You are, Lord, I am free Holiness is Christ in me As the crowd sings Mary Magdalene anoints Jesus, she wets his feet with her tears then dries them with her hair and kisses them. Crowd: Lord, I need You, oh, I need You Every hour I need You My one defense, my righteousness Oh God, how I need You Mary Magdalene: Teach my song to rise to You When temptation comes my way And when I cannot stand I'll fall on You Jesus, You're my hope and stay Crowd: Lord, I need You, oh, I need You Every hour I need You My one defense, my righteousness

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Oh God, how I need You You're my one defense, my righteousness Oh God, how I need You Mary Magdalene: My one defense, my righteousness Oh God, how I need You Mary Magdalene My God, I have led a sinful life. But I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. I long to know and to follow you, my savior. Pharisee If this man were a prophet He would know who and what sort of person this woman is who is touching Him, that she is a sinner Judas Why is she wasting that oil? We could sell the oil and make at least thirty silver pieces for the poor! Jesus Your sins are forgiven; you may go in peace, with the blessing of the Lord Mary Magdalene embraces Jesus, after they pull away; the scene freezes, except for Judas.

Scene 10 Judas breaks free from the tableau onstage and crosses to the baptismal font as he sings.

Heaven on Their Minds (Jesus Christ Superstar) Judas: My mind is clearer now At last, all too well I can see Where we all soon will be Judas addresses the frozen Jesus. Listen, Jesus I don't like what I see All I ask is that You listen to me And remember, I've been Your right hand man all along You have set them all on fire They think they've found the new Messiah And they'll hurt You when they find they're wrong

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The high priests enter from the narthex and approach Judas. Priest 1: Nazareth's most famous Son Should have stayed a great unknown Like His father carving wood He'd have made good. Priest 2: Tables, chairs and oaken chests Would have suited Jesus best He'd have caused nobody harm, no one alarm! Judas turns to approach the frozen Jesus one last time, desperate for something to talk him out of this decision. Judas: Listen, Jesus to the warning I give Please remember that I want us to live But it's sad to see our chances weakening with every hour Judas turns to the others onstage. All Your followers are blind, too much heaven on their minds It was beautiful but now it's sour, yes it's all gone sour Judas crosses back to the baptismal font where the priests wait. When he reaches it the stage quietly shifts. More food is added to the table and the disciples gather around it for the last super. Priest 1 We understand you are a disciple of Jesus’ Priest 2 What can you tell us about his whereabouts? Judas If I turn him over to you, what will you give me? Priest 1 We would be willing to offer you 30 silver pieces Priest 1 hands Judas a pouch with change inside. Priest 2 That money could make a large difference in the lives of the poor

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Priest 1 Think about it Judas I have thought enough. The deed is done. I will look for an opportunity to hand him over to you The Priests exit to the Narthex and Judas crosses to the alter, where he joins the disciples for the last super.

Scene 11 Disciple 5 Judas, why didn’t you arrive earlier? Judas I was performing some tasks that fall under my duties as treasurer Disciple 6 Judas, don’t think about money for one evening. Just enjoy this meal with us Disciple 7 And what a beautiful Passover meal it is! In fact, with such a fine meal before us, I find it odd that Jesus doesn’t seem to be in higher spirits. Why do you look troubled, Lord? Jesus Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me The disciples protest. Peter Surely it is not I, Lord John Nor I Jesus The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born Judas

Surely you don’t mean me Rabbi Jesus

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You have said so Peter (more firmly) Surely it is not I, Lord Jesus Truly I say to you, Peter, that this very night, before a rooster crows, you will deny me three times Peter Even if I have to die with you, I will not desert you! Disciple 8 Nor will I! Disciple 9 I shall also die for you! Disciple 10 I would do anything for you Lord! Jesus Let us enjoy this Passover! These women have worked hard so that we may feast this evening. I have eagerly awaited this meal, and am pleased to share it with those who have served me faithfully The disciples begin to eat. Jesus holds up a piece of bread. Jesus This is my body, which will be given up for you. Take this, and eat Jesus breaks the bread and the disciples pass it around, each eating a portion. Jesus holds up a jug of wine. Jesus Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom Jesus pours the wine into a cup or two and the disciples pass it around, each drinking a portion. The disciples continue eating for a minute. Jesus Our meal is finished; I wish to go to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Come, and keep watch for me

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The disciples stand and the women in the crowd begin to clear away the meal. Jesus catches Judas as he tries to sneak out and addresses him away from the others, on the front steps of the alter. Jesus Judas, what you must do, do it quickly Judas exits down the center isle to the narthex. Peter approaches Jesus. Peter Lord, are you troubled? Jesus Peter, for years I have tried to offer kindness and mercy to those who have needed it most. But, as my time draws near, I wonder, did I do enough? Peter Lord, think of all the people you helped! What more could you have done? The disciples leave the alter upstage by the choir loft and re-enter downstage by the center aisle.

Scene 12 Jesus (gesturing to the steps of the alter, stage left) Sit here, while I go over there and pray. Peter, John, and James follow me further Jesus moves to the center of the alter, followed by Peter, John, and James. Jesus My soul is sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch with me Jesus moves to the highest level of the alter and kneels. The disciples slowly succumb to sleep. Jesus My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will Jesus looks up and notices the sleeping disciples. He crosses to them. Jesus Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?

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Peter We are sorry, Lord Jesus Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation, the spirit is willing, but the body is weak. Peter Lord, we do desire to pray with you Jesus I will go and pray again, this time I hope you shall remain awake Jesus crosses to the highest level of the alter and kneels to pray once again, the disciples succumb to sleep a second time. Jesus My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done Jesus stands and once again sees the disciples sleeping. Jesus Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Look, the hour is near, and the son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners As Jesus speaks the disciples stand and gather around him on the highest level of the alter. Disciple 11 Lord, are you not afraid? Jesus If my God is with me, whom then shall I fear?

Whom Then Shall I Fear (Chris Tomlin) Jesus: Whom shall I fear? I know who goes before me I know who stands behind The God of angel armies Is always by my side The one who reigns forever He is a friend of mine The God of angel armies

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Is always by my side Jesus crosses to the lower level of the alter. As each disciple sings, they join him. My strength is in Your name For You alone can save You will deliver me Yours is the victory Whom shall I fear Jesus and Peter: Whom shall I fear Disciple 1: I know who goes before me Disciples 1&2: I know who stands behind Disciples 1,2,&3: The God of angel armies Disciples 1,2,3,&4: Is always by my side All Disciples: The one who reigns forever He is a friend of mine Jesus: The God of angel armies Is always by my side Jesus & Disciples: I know who goes before me I know who stands behind The God of angel armies Is always by my side The one who reigns forever He is a friend of mine The God of angel armies Is always by my side Jesus: The God of angel armies Is always by my side Judas enters up the center isle, followed by soldiers. Jesus Let us go, my betrayer is at hand Judas The man I kiss is the one

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Judas approaches Jesus and kisses him on the cheek. The soldiers seize Jesus. Disciple 12 pulls out his sword and slices the ear off of one of the soldiers. Jesus Put your sword back into its place; for all those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword. Or do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? Jesus stoops and picks up the ear of the wounded soldier, replacing it. The soldiers look shocked, but haul Jesus offstage; the disciples follow them.

Scene 13 The stage is transformed into Pilate’s court. The disciples sit on one side of the alter with Mary and other friends of Jesus, on the other side sits an angry crowd. Jesus is dragged out and thrown to the ground towards the front of the alter. Pilate stands on the higher level of the alter, on the stage left side. Soldier 1 Here is Jesus Soldier 2 The man who claims he is the king of the Jews The Soldiers step up to the higher level of the alter, and Pilate steps down to the lower level of the alter. Pilate Are you the king of the Jews? Jesus You have said so Woman 22 I am a faithful Jew, and this man is no king of mine! Woman 23 Nor mine! The crowd cheers in agreement. Woman 24 He is a liar! The crowd cheers in agreement.

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Woman 25 And a blasphemer! The crowd cheers in agreement. Woman 26 He claimed that he could tear down the temple and rebuild it in three days! Woman 27 I also heard him say this! The crowd shouts angrily. Pilate Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of? (long pause) Do you refuse to answer me? Do you not realize, that I have the power to free you, or to crucify you? Pilate waits, but Jesus does not answer. Pilate’s wife enters form behind the alter and speaks to a soldier. Pilate’s Wife Guard, I wish to speak to my husband Soldier 1 You cannot speak to him now Pilate’s Wife There is something he needs to know Soldier 1 I will relay the message Pilate’s Wife Tell him he must have nothing to do with that righteous Man, for last night I suffered greatly in a dream because of Him Soldier 1 crosses to Pilate. Soldier 1 Your wife has sent you a message Pilate What is it? Soldier 1

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She says you must have nothing to do with that righteous Man, for last night she suffered greatly in a dream because of Him Pilate Very well Pilate dismisses Soldier 1 with a gesture and he retreats to the higher level of the alter once more. Pilate leans in close to Jesus and sings quietly.

Heaven on Their Minds (Reprise) (Jesus Christ Superstar) Pilate: Listen Jesus to the warning I give Please remember that I want you to live And it’s sad to see You chances weakening with every hour All your follows are here And yet how loudly that crowd cheers Please remember I’m the one with power Pilate Now tell me, are you the king of the Jews? Pilate waits, but again, Jesus does not answer. Pilate Fine then, if you do not wish to speak, I will speak to the people. (Addressing the crowd) There is a tradition whereby at Passover time I am to release a prisoner at the request of the people. Do you want me to release this man, Jesus, or Barabbas? Crowd Barabbas! Release Barabbas! Do not release this man! Etc. Pilate Fine! I will release Barabbas. What shall I do then, with the one you call the King of the Jews? Woman 28 Crucify him! Crowd Yes! Crucify him! He deserves to die! This man is not our king! Etc. Pilate Why? What crime has he committed?

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Crowd (louder) Crucify him! He deserves to die! This man is not our king! Etc. Pilate catches his wife’s eye, and they exchange a meaningful look. Pilate crosses to a bowl of water next to her and washes his hands in it. Pilate I wash my hands of this. I am innocent of this man’s blood. Take him, and crucify him yourselves The crowd cheers as the soldiers drag Jesus off. All exit, and remove the court with them, leaving a fire behind.

Scene 14 The cross is pulled out and lowered and women enter and spread out around the church carrying (fake) candles as Peter enters and warms his hands by the fire. Servant Girl approaches him. Servant Girl You are not also one of this man’s disciples are you? Peter I am not Servant Girl Surely you are, for you are a Galilean as well! Peter I am not one of his disciples Servant Girl You must be! Peter I tell you, I am not a follower of this man! A cock crows and Peter runs offstage, the servant girl joins the crowd.

Scene 15 The sound of Jesus being beaten is heard, then Jesus enters wearing a crow of thorns and carrying the cross from the stage right side of the alter. He is followed by the soldiers then the disciples. As he walks through the church, the rest of the women fall into line behind the disciples, crying as they walk. The first soloists are the first to fall in line, singing as they do so. All but Jesus and the soldiers sing.

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Jesus falls the first time at the first break in the seating sections in the church. Mary Mother of God stands at the second break in sections and she tries to reach Jesus but is pushed away by the soldiers. She follows behind him. When Jesus reaches the third break in sections a soldier pulls Simon from the crowd to help Jesus carry the cross. When Jesus reaches the center aisle Veronica runs down the aisle and wipes his face before the soldiers push her away. When Jesus reaches the fifth break in sections he falls a second time.

Via Dolorosa Via Dolorosa 1: Down the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem that day Via Dolorosa 2: The soldiers tried to clear the narrow street Via Dolorosa 3: But the crowd pressed in to see Via Dolorosa 4: The Man condemned to die on Calvary Via Dolorosa 6: He was bleeding from a beating, Via Dolorosa 7: There were stripes upon His back Via Dolorosa 8: And He wore a crown of thorns upon His head Via Dolorosa 9: And He bore with every step The scorn of those who cried out for His death Crowd: Down the Via Dolorosa called the way of suffering Like a lamb came the Messiah, Christ the King, But He chose to walk that road out of His love For you and me. Down the Via Dolorosa, all the way to Calvary. The blood that would cleanse the souls of all men Made its way to the heart of Jerusalem. Down the Via Dolorosa called the way of suffering Like a lamb came the Messiah, Christ the King But He chose to walk that road out of His love For you and me Down the Via Dolorosa, all the way to Calvary.

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When Jesus reaches the alter he falls a third time and the crowd sits on the sides of the alter as the Soldiers nail him to the cross and pull it upright.

See His Love (Jesus Culture) Crowd: See His love nailed onto a cross Perfect and blameless life given as sacrifice See Him there all in the name of love Broken yet glorious, all for the sake of us This is Jesus in His glory King of Heaven dying for me It is finished, He has done it Death is beaten, Heaven beckons me Greater love no one could ever show Mercy so undeserved, freedom I should not know All my sin, all of my hidden shame Died with Him on the cross, eternity won for us This is Jesus in His glory King of Heaven dying for me It is finished, He has done it Death is beaten, Heaven beckons me Such love, such love Such love is this for me Such love, such love Such love is this for me Jesus Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani! My God, my God! Why have you forsaken me! Mary Mother of God throws herself on the ground in the center of the alter in front of the cross and sobs. Jesus Woman, behold your son, Son, behold your mother Mary and Martha approach Mary Mother of God and lead her to the side. Jesus I am thirsty The soldiers soak a sponge in a jar of vinegar and use a branch to press it to Jesus’s mouth. Jesus

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It is finished Jesus hangs his head and thunder crashes. Mary Mother of God screams in agony. Woman 29 Surely, this man was the Son of God! The soldiers lower the body of Jesus and place him in Mary’s lap, then exit (they change into other clothes and re-enter). The crowd begins to sing. As each soloist sings, they approach Mary Mother of God and offer her comfort and observe the body of Jesus, then surround the baptismal font, placing their candles on the ledges of the four fountains. When everyone sings together, members of the crowd approach her.

Blessed Redeemer (Casting Crowns) Blesses Redeemer 1: Up Calvary’s mountain one dreadful morn Blesses Redeemer 2: Walked Christ my Savior, weary and worn Blesses Redeemer 3: Facing for sinners death on the cross Blesses Redeemer 4: That He might save them from endless loss Crowd: Blessed Redeemer, precious Redeemer Seems now I see Him on Calvary’s tree Wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading Blind and unheeding, dying for me Blesses Redeemer 5: “Father, forgive them,” my Savior prayed Blesses Redeemer 6: Even while His lifeblood flowed fast away Blesses Redeemer 7: Praying for sinners while in such woe Blesses Redeemer 8: No one but Jesus ever loved so Crowd: Blessed Redeemer, precious Redeemer Seems now I see Him on Calvary’s tree Wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading Blind and unheeding, dying for me

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Blesses Redeemer 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,& 8: Dying for me The disciples lift Jesus’s body and place it in the baptismal font, the crowd spreads a sheet over the top. Under the sheet Jesus exchanges his body for a mannequin and slips out wearing different clothing. The chorus repeats as long as this takes. Peter: Oh how I love Him, Savior and friend How can my praises ever find end Through years unnumbered on Heaven’s shore My songs shall praise Him forevermore Crowd (acapella): Blessed Redeemer, precious Redeemer Seems now I see Him on Calvary’s tree Wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading Blind and unheeding, dying for me The crowd lowers the sheet and huddles together crying. There needs to be a solid few moments when the church is silent and still all but for the weeping of the crowd (and hopefully the audience). Mary does not move until this moment has had time to land.

Scene 16 Mary stands and crosses to the center of the alter. When she starts to sing the crowd turns to her and as each member joins in they join her on the alter, concealing Jesus in their midst. The song begins slowly and sorrowfully but it grows to be full of hope. The song is not about the sadness that they feel, but the strength Jesus imparted on them to carry on.

Because He Lives (Matt Maher) Mary Mother of God: I believe in the Son Peter: I believe in the coming One Martha: I believe I overcome Mary: By the power of His blood Bride: Amen Groom: Amen Leper 1:

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I’m alive, I’m alive Because He lived Simon: Amen Veronica: Amen Simon and Veronica: Let my song join the one that never ends Mary Mother of God: Because He lived Lazarus: I was dead in the grave Mary Magdalene: I was covered in sin and shame Adulteress: I heard mercy call my name Lazarus: He rolled the stone away Mary Magdalene: Amen, Adulteress: Amen Lazarus: I’m alive, I’m alive Because He lived Crowd: Amen, Amen Let my song join the one that never ends Because He lived I can face tomorrow Because He lived Every fear is gone I know He holds my life my future in His hands Mary Mother of God: Amen, Peter (grasping Mary’s hand): Amen The crowd grassp each other’s hands during the coming verse; it is gradual, not all at once. They should look at one another as they grab each others’ hands Crowd: I’m alive, I’m alive Because He lived Amen, Amen Let my song join the one that never ends

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Amen, Amen I’m alive, I’m alive Because He lived Amen, Amen Let my song join the one that never ends Because He lived Because He lived

The End