The Rochester Bay Knoll church hosted a dramatic presentation of The Last Supper during the Easter season as a reminder of one of the most significant moments in Jesus’ ministry. The reenactment was open to the public at no cost and featured church members portraying the disciples. A mix of music and impactful dialogue added depth to the evening.
The sanctuary remained dark throughout the performance, with only a spotlight on the speaker. Participants remained posed—mimicking Leonardo da Vinci’s famous The Last Supper painting. Each disciple stood and spoke in turn, reflecting on the moment Jesus revealed that one among them would betray Him, and they would wonder aloud, “Is it I?” Their expressions and spoken reflections invited the audience to consider their humanity in following Christ.
Although many are wary of participating as disciples, they always try to learn their lines and how to present them. According to Mike Orsburn, one of the members who initially began the tradition, “When all is said and done, I think all the participants sigh a big sigh of relief but are also encouraged by how well received their performances are.”
Adding to the significance of this year’s play, Miguel Crespo, New York Conference president, joined Bay Knoll’s cast of disciples in the presentation. The church community greatly appreciated his willingness to drive up and participate. It showcased a shared commitment to bringing the story of Jesus to life through this dramatic reenactment.
Michael Krug, who played Jesus, shared: “This is the third year I have participated…It is always interesting how people interpret their script and try to bring their character to life.”
Newer participants also found meaning in portraying Christ’s disciples. Jorge De La Fuente, who portrayed Judas, reflected on his first experience: “Very thrilling; I have never done something like this. Definitely out of my comfort zone.”
Stefan Phillips, who played Andrew, remarked: “Participating makes you truly comprehend the various, clashing personalities that Jesus brought together as disciples to spread the gospel. It’s somewhat like a microcosm of the church board!”
Others who have consistently participated also shared their thoughts. William Orsburn, who played Simon the Zealot, noted: “I’ve been doing Simon since the beginning. You would think it would get easier, but it seems the older I get, the harder it is to keep the lines in order. It was nice getting to know some of the new guys in the church. It was great to see the different personalities coming out.”
Glen Kowski, who has played John each year since the event began, reflected: “It was intimidating at first, but now I try to put myself in John’s position and experience what it must have been like. It’s the closest I can come to that intense moment in time.”
Mike reflected further: “Judy [Mike’s wife] and I have been involved with the play since its inception. Judy is the one who initiated it and provided the components to get it underway. I’ve played the parts of Peter, Thomas, Judas, and the narrator.… What’s most impressive to me is the impact of the message on the audience, especially when seen for the first time.”
The event also featured music performances by Marilee Allen, Sarah Coleman, Laurelle Michel, and Isaac Nelson. “I really liked Marilee’s song and that she used an unusual instrument to perform it, bringing you back to the simplicity of the story of Jesus,” recalled Coleman.
Many attendees—both members and visitors—praised the evening’s performance. Comments such as “very well done,” “great presentation,” and “wonderful event” were shared in a follow-up survey.
This year’s presentation was particularly meaningful, given that it was the first one since before the COVID-19 pandemic. For those experiencing it for the first time, the performance provided a creative look at The Last Supper and a chance to connect with others and reflect on its significance.
Special thanks goes to Chiara DeSanctis, who has directed and coordinated every aspect of the play since its inception. DeSanctis and the participants dedicated many hours to organizing the presentation, learning lines, and participating in weekly practices. Their hard work all came to light—or should we say the spotlight?— and left the crowd eagerly anticipating next year’s performance.
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Grace Ventura, member, Rochester Bay Knoll church
