History of The St. John Passion Play - Performing since 1918 in the Greater Cincinnati, OH area

2008 - Our 91st Year
cross In 1918 a tradition was established that was to continue to the present time.

It began through the efforts of Father Richard Wurth of the St. John the Baptist Church in the Cincinnati area as a prayer for the safety of the men of the parish who were serving in the Armed Forces during World War I. Father and the cast pledged to present the Play every year thereafter in praise and thanksgiving for answered prayer.

The closing of St. John the Baptist Church in 1969 almost saw the demise of the Passion Play.

Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church However, at that time several cast members united to keep the message of the Passion Play alive and established the Passion Play as a non-profit charitable organization. Performing the Play in church sanctuaries has given it a special spirituality.

It is our prayer that we will continue to present the Play on "hallowed ground."

The cast and crew of the Passion Play are from all walks of life, executive to student and from several denominational beliefs.

But one common bond remains; the desire to continue to praise and give thanksgiving to our Lord, who created us, and gave His life for us. With each year we strive to add new authenticity to the Play and give it a greater spiritual impact.

Our desire is to bring the Scriptures alive in a dramatic and moving way and portray John 3;16. Enjoy the Play and may the good Lord bless and keep you.

We would appreciate it if you would take a few moments and e-mail us your thoughts and comments.