During Lent, the Prince of Peace Church religious education department staged a Passion play using the students in the parish’s religious school. Under the direction and guidance of Caroline Colonna, a volunteer drama director, the youngsters dramatized the story of John the Baptist, the entrance into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, the washing of feet and the crucifixion.

Colonna developed the drama program, using the Scriptures, music and liturgical dance to put together the script. Michelle McMurry choreographed the dancers, and Caroline’s husband, David Colonna, served as stagehand, as well as proclaiming the closing scripture for each performance. Other adult volunteers made hand-sewn costumes and assisted backstage.

Lisa Downs, ministry coordinator for Prince of Peace, said, “We found that experiencing the Scriptures (‘bringing them alive’ as the director puts it) made such an impact, and it was a first experience of service for the young cast of first through eighth graders, who performed it seven times throughout the week, to all sessions of religious education. One of our teens volunteered and handled all of the audiovisual and put together a CD of film and pictures.”

Prince of Peace Church is located at 6439 Spout Springs Road, Flowery Branch.