Bishop Edward Malesic and Father Dan Schlegel, secretary and vicar for clergy and religious, are journeying with about 60 faithful from the Diocese of Cleveland on a pilgrimage to Poland, the Czech Republic and Germany. The trip was organized by the Catholic Community Foundation. Highlights of day 10 are featured in the photo gallery above and in the story below.
The diocesan pilgrims are among thousands of people who have been able to experience the famous Passion Play at Oberammergau in Germany. The production has taken place every 10 years since 1634 as villagers continue to honor their promise to God in thanksgiving after they were saved from additional deaths from the plague. The only time there was a break in the production schedule was 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic lockdown. The performances were delayed until this year.
“Today was the highlight of the pilgrimage as we experienced the Oberammergau Passion Play. This five-hour play recounts the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This moving performance will be remembered by all for years to come,” said Deacon Dennis Conrad, one of the pilgrims.
The production took place in two segments with a dinner break between. More than 2,000 participants bring Jesus’ story to life in the open-air play. The production includes almost half of the population of Oberammergau.
The Passion Play recounts the events from Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday through the Last Supper, his passion, crucifixion and resurrection.
This is the 42nd time the play has been performed. It is divided into 12 scenes and includes tableaus or living pictures of paintings portrayed by performers as well as music by a 55-member orchestra and more than 100 choristers. Some of the performers have been involved with the show for as many decades while others are in their first production.
This year’s performances run May 15 through Oct. 2.
(Photos and information provided by Father Dan Schlegel and Deacon Dennis Conrad.)