In the Upper Room: A Drama for Maundy Thursday

Requiring no memorization, this drama can be performed by any size congregation. Most of the reading is done out of sight while the 15 participants portray what the narrators are reading.

The primary narrator is a Greek woman named Sophia who is drawn to the Christian church and community in Ephesus. She is preparing to become baptized in the church the Apostle Paul had started approximately 50 years earlier. Her instructors in the faith are none other than the gospel writers Mark and John, who share in the narration of this drama.

Highlights include a footwashing and communal meal. Following the Communion by the disciples, the bread and chalice are shared with the congregation.

This is a very useful resource for pastors or worship and music committees looking for something a little out of the ordinary for the Lenten season. Little rehearsal is needed.

Georgianna Summers is a prolific writer of drama and church resources. A former Director of Religious Education, she also taught college English and Drama. She has written youth and young adult curriculum, material for the United Methodist Church. She is the mother of three adult children and the wife of a United Methodist pastor.