This is the opening for the Easter Sunrise 2009 service at Chetek Lutheran Church in Chetek, WI. The service was done by the high school youth group and was done as a clown service under the guidance of their Youth Director, Josh Toufar.

On this Friday, which is “good” because Jesus died so that we might live, begin worship in silence, and ponder the mystery and the wonder of God's grace as displayed on a cross.

NARRATOR: The mood of the people in the city of Jerusalem was one of celebration and excitement. It was the week of the Feast of the Passover, a Holy day that reminded all of Israel of the time when God saved them from slavery in Egypt. They continued to hope that God would act again and send to them the Messiah, the one from God who would save them from the oppression of the Romans who now ruled their land.

Narrator: It was two days before the celebration of the Feast of the Passover in the city of Jerusalem. Jesus had been in the city with his disciples for some time. He openly spoke about the fact that he would have to suffer and die to save people from their sins. He also challenged the religious authorities by condemning their self-righteous attitudes. So the Chief Priest and religious leaders met to form a plan.

NARRATOR: It was a time of celebration in the city of Jerusalem. Thousands of pilgrims from across the world were gathering for the annual Feast of the Passover. This great feast remembered how God saved the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt. It was a time to remember how God's promise to be with his people always was alive and well.

This is a first person Passion Narrative According to St. Mark. Mark 14:1--15:47.

This is a first person Passion Narrative According to St. Mark. Mark 14:1--15:47.

This can be used as a guide during a Last Supper dinner. This also includes Passover Meal.

Note: There is a modest fee for use. The following drama takes place on the Sunday of the Passion. Its purpose is to allow each worshiper suddenly to discover (pitifully, intensely, truly to discover) his own rootedness in the drama which is Christ's, so that the Passion Story may no longer be mere story for observance, analysis, learning or history; so that it embrace the worshiper, name him, and become his own story indeed: the shape of his being.

Processional Gospel: Luke 19:28-40. In the order of service, the dramatic portrayal takes place immediately after the announcements.