From a Soldier of Rome to a Soldier for Christ: An Easter Sunrise Drama

Give your congregation a new perspective on the Easter story with this chancel drama that depicts the familiar events of Jesus' death and resurrection from the viewpoint of a Roman soldier. A series of brief vignettes portrays the soldier's transformation into a follower of Christ, and the drama climaxes as the soldier announces his new identity while the setting is altered. Congregational participation is encouraged through the singing of hymns between each scene. This adaptable piece is easy to stage and can be presented by any number of youth or adults (or a combination of age groups); most of the speaking is done by a narrator who speaks from the pulpit, so there's no need to memorize extensive dialogue. A list of props and costumes is included, along with simple instructions for the setting. Performance time is approximately thirty minutes.

Lawrence H. Balleine is the pastor of Zwingli United Church of Christ in Monticello, Wisconsin. He previously served congregations in Indiana and Michigan. Balleine is a graduate of Lakeland College and Vanderbilt University Divinity School.