Tauranga Church stirs emotions with immersive crucifixion display
Bethlehem Baptist Church in Tauranga, New Zealand is organising an unusual Easter exhibition. For many, it may even be controversial. Eleven men will take on the role of the crucified, creating quite an emotionally intense experience for visitors.
During the Easter week at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Tauranga, New Zealand, an extraordinary exhibition takes place. Eleven men spend an hour on the cross, re-enacting scenes of the crucifixion. This event is organised every two years and attracts many interested attendees.
It's a great challenge for the participants
Bryson Moulton, one of the participants, is taking part in this re-enactment for the first time.
“It is an honour and a privilege,” says Moulton, quoted by the New Zealand Herald. He added that preparation for the role, including applying makeup, takes about an hour. For visitors, it is a very immersive experience that allows them to feel the emotions associated with the biblical story.
Senior Pastor Craig Vernhall explains that the idea for this re-enactment was born 15 years ago when the church began recruiting a team for this venture.
“This is quite gruelling,” admits Vernhall. He explained that the exhibition also includes other elements related to the history of Jesus, which are difficult to present without excessive brutality.
Almost 400 volunteers are involved in preparing the exhibition, ensuring that every detail is polished. The exhibition transports visitors to places such as Bethlehem or the Sea of Galilee, offering them a journey through biblical landscapes.
The exhibition can be viewed from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday
The exhibition is constantly evolving, introducing new ideas and solutions every two years. “It was a lot simpler than it is now,” says Vernhall, emphasising that the event is free and open to everyone.
The event is available for visitors on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday.
