Easter Mysteries

Each year, a handful of faith-based films are produced to inspire people to reflect on the events surrounding Christ’s death and resurrection. These can be great opportunities for people to not only deepen their personal walk with the Lord, but also use them as an outreach invitation to a friend, family member, or co-worker. We are looking forward to checking out Easter Mysteries, which will be in theaters for one day only, Tuesday March 22.

Easter Mysteries is the first Passion Play ever told from Peter’s perspective. A modern take on two medieval mystery plays set to music, this biblically-based oratorio-musical is written in two acts. Using the universal theme of death and resurrection, the first act follows Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem, the Last Supper, His arrest, Peter’s struggle with faith and Jesus’ death. The second concerns the sightings of Jesus after His burial, Peter’s reconciliation of faith, and Jesus’ reappearance and ascension.

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”  Isaiah 53:5

P. J. Griffith who plays Judas shares, “I think Easter Mysteries is a beautiful piece of art that humanizes the struggles of familiar characters who are trying to make sense of a miracle. Living in an era where the media bombards us with tension and sensationalized negativity, this piece celebrates hope transcending despair.”

Directed by Daniel Goldstein whose credits include a 2011 Broadway revival of Godspell and John O’Boyle a Tony Award-winning Broadway producer (La Cage aux Folles, 2011; Vanya, Sonia, Masha and Spike, 2013), the team is joined by a veteran Broadway cast. Together they are able to transform a historical story into terms that everyone can relate to through characters who have hopes, dreams and fears similar to us all.

 “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”  Galatians 2:20

Director Daniel Goldstein reflects, “It was thrilling for me to work on Easter Mysteries with this extraordinary company.  What was most exciting was seeing people from all kinds of backgrounds come together to tell a story that has such deep meaning for all involved.  And to place the story in such a universal environment, where we knew we were going to reach a truly wide and diverse audience – well that’s about all we could ever ask for as storytellers.”

In addition to the performance, audiences will also be treated to an exclusive interfaith panel with prominent Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders, as they lead a discussion about the current state of interfaith relations and topics evoked by this profound production.

The producer, John O’Boyle, shared about his experience making Easter Mysteries, “Creating Easter Mysteries has been and continues to be the most incredible spiritual journey.   From its almost accidental beginning to this jewel of a film, I have been given the most wonderful and talented people to work with. The director, designers, performers, and production support staff have all been extraordinary and it clearly shows in this moving and entertaining film. I look forward to sharing Easter Mysteries with a wide audience during Holy Week.”

 “When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!” Matthew 27:54

Hopefully you are able to check out Easter Mysteries. There are also other great films that can help remind us of what was done on the cross for us. Remember that all of them have taken some creative liberties so the best thing to do is always read the Bible and check out the story for yourself. Other films to consider, The Passion of the Christ, Son of God, Risen, and The Ten Commandments. Of course this list is not exhaustive, there are many more. If you have one you love, share it with us in the comments!

Risen Reflections

Prepare your heart for Easter. Take time and reflect on the chapters that follow the death and resurrection of Christ. Think about how God loved us so much that He sent His one and only Son to die for us. Ask God to show you a fresh perspective on the story this year. Write a thank you prayer to God for not only what He did on the cross but bringing you into a saving relationship with Him.

Pray about whom you can invite to Easter service or spring outreach event. It could be your neighbor, co-worker, family member or friend. Many people are more open to attending church at Christmas and Easter. Take advantage of their openness so that they can hear about the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Drop the chocolate bunny! Instead of filling Easter baskets with chocolate and toys, consider giving gifts with meaning. It could be a Bible, a book, or CD. These will definitely last longer, help someone grow in their relationship with Christ and not leave you with a tummy ache.

Serve as a family. Many churches have their highest attendance on Easter and often are short-handed on volunteers as people travel or have plans with their family. Ask your church how you can serve together as a family. From greeting to singing in the choir, it is a great opportunity to give back.

Skip something! Whether it is the latest Easter outfit or going out to brunch as a family, consider donating the money you would spend to a ministry or missions organization. It could be your favorite local charity or a national cause. Pray and ask God how He wants you to be a steward of the things He has entrusted to you.

Risen readers can purchase your tickets to Easter Mysteries before anyone else! Get your tickets now at http://bit.ly/1Vohf9m.