Easter colourfully played out

Jesus is led to the cross by Roman soldiers in a scene from last year's St Andrews and Whangarei Central Baptist Church reenactment of the Easter story. Photo / Tania Whyte

A common concern among Christians is that the meanings behind their major festivals are often lost in a commercial clamour.

But on Good Friday the true meaning of Easter will be dramatically illustrated in Whangarei when members of St Andrews and Whangarei Central Baptist Churches put on a colourful reenactment of the Easter story.

Lorne Campbell, Associate Minister at St Andrews Church, said the Good Friday re-enactment of the betrayal, denial, trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ is the reason why we have Good Friday.

"On Good Friday this year, there will be a re-enactment here in Whangarei of that historical event in period costume.

"It starts in Laurie Hall Park down by Farmers at 9.30am and will proceed up the hill to St Andrews, the Whangarei Court House, the fire station, McDonald's and finally Central Baptist Church opposite New World. It is a family friendly event and anyone is invited to come along."

Last year about 250 believers lined Bank St on Good Friday for the dramatic depiction of the Good Friday story. The churches have been putting on the performance for four years and about 15 members of the congregations take part in the performance.

The colourful dramatisation tells of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary.