Church holds Passion Walk reenactment

This scene, depicting Jesus on the cross as a Roman soldier pierced His side, was part of The Church of God's recent "Passion Walk" reenactment of the Easter story. (Photo contributed)

The Church of God held a Passion Walk reenactment of the Easter story beginning at 6 p.m. on Good Friday, March 21. The walk began at Thompson's Corner, proceeded up Winthrope Avenue and crossed U.S. Highway 25 at The Church of God.

Jesus was portrayed by B.L. Kent. The three Roman soldiers in full dress were portrayed by David Cox, Wilson McMahon and Grayson Kent. The pastor of The Church of God, James R. Cox, led a very cooperative sheep named "Bucky," who was generously donated for the walk by Andrea Simmons of Sylvania. Mary, the mother of Jesus, was played by Susie Casey of Statesboro. Simon, who helped Jesus carry His cross near the end of the journey, was portrayed by Joshua Farthing of Walnut Ridge, Ark.

There was a mob leading the way with shouts of "Crucify Him!" This group was made up of Pastor Christy Bandy of the Millen United Methodist Church, Jimmy Cox, Trey Casey, Daniel Cox and Candice Casey. Last in line was the mourning crowd consisting of Joyce Thompson, Becky Kent, Karen Farthing, Teresa Ellison, Allie Cox, Brittany Casey, Eveleana James and Christine Casey.

There were many onlookers, and some followed the procession all the way to the burial tomb.

The costumes were made by Christine Casey. Some of the weapons held by the soldiers were donated by Mr. and Mrs. William Deitz. B.L. Kent fashioned the crosses that were used in the production.

Easter Sunday morning, the worshippers met outdoors by the tomb that "Jesus" was placed into after the mock crucifixion on Friday. The group sang about His glorious resurrection and watched as death lost its grip on the Savior of all mankind. The group sang "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" as they walked into the sanctuary to finish the services.

The pastor's wife, Allene Cox, stated, "God blessed us with an anointed message from Pastor Cox about the faith we all must have, not only on this special and blessed day, but every day, to keep the hope alive and make heaven our home when death comes to call. We are grateful to all who participated, and all who watched. It is with great honor that we chose to remember our King this way, this year. May God bless all who took part in our celebration!"