The spirit of faith and community was alive in the Abbey Gardens on Saturday, June 22nd, as the 2024 Abingdon Passion Play unfolded. Standing on the hallowed ground where St Mary’s, The Abbey Church, once stood, the production offered a fresh perspective on the story of Jesus. This was the fourth Abingdon Passion Play, and each has told the same story differently.

Blessed with sunshine, the lunchtime and late afternoon productions saw audiences settle down to watch, some with their foldable seats and picnics. Two women, seated at a cafe set on the stage, asked questions we all might ask watching the drama.

The play didn’t rush straight into the events of the Passion. Instead, it began with a procession, with Jesus (with white hair), his disciples, and a crowd of cheering children and adults in front.

The music, a collaboration between orchestra and choir, added to the moving scenes, under the direction of Sally Meers, who also arranged much of the score.

Before witnessing the Passion itself, the audience was reminded of Jesus’ miracles. We saw the sick healed, and the moment of the feeding of the 5,000. Jesus sent disciples into the audience, just as they did with the crowd, asking if anyone had food. A child’s lunchbox became the catalyst for a miracle that fed a multitude.

As the story progressed, the play explored the rising tension. Jesus’ act of clearing traders from the temple angered the authorities, who plotted his demise.

We witnessed the Last Supper,

the solitary prayer in Gethsemane strengthened by an angel’s presence,

the betrayal,

the trials,

Jesus carrying the cross,

and ultimately, the crucifixion and death of Jesus at Calvary.

The two women returned to a transformed cafe, bearing the words “Under New Management.” Hope returned as the disciples discovered the empty tomb. A waiter, unrecognized as the resurrected Jesus, approached the women, offering them drinks and the promise of new life.

This production was a result of the tireless efforts of all involved. The spirit of ecumenism shone, with each Abingdon church contributing spaces and volunteers. The result was a deeply moving play, witnessed by an estimated 1,200 people across two performances.

The 2024 Abingdon Passion Play served as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of faith, the strength of community, and the transformative message of Jesus’ life and sacrifice.