Guest Editorial by Dianne Sudbrock

I admit, I sometimes hem and haw a little bit about going to the New Melle Passion Play. After all, I’ve seen it before, right? But oh my gosh, once I’m there, I am SO glad I went!
The New Melle Community Passion Play is put on by an “amateur” cast, but all those involved in the production do an exceptional job! I experienced so many emotions this year as the cast portrayed a realm of feelings from love and compassion, to betrayal, anger and outrage, to anguish, pain and sorrow, and ultimately exhilarating joy! I cried. Other people cried. It simply touches your soul, and it lifts you up in hope and adoration and thanksgiving to God. Nearly every performance ends with a very well-deserved standing ovation.
And this has been going on in our community for over four decades! Think about that!
Hundreds of people from all walks of life have joined together -- for over 40 years -- to create this vivid telling of the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each year brings a few new faces, but many of the actors come back year after year. Several families are now on their third generation of participation. That is phenomenal!
But I want to recognize one person in particular, Paul Mittler. Paul played Jesus in the very first production in 1982, and he’s been involved every year since. Not only is he the director and narrator, but he is the driving force behind the entire production. From scheduling rehearsals to building the set and hanging the lights (with help from others), to approving the publicity, to buying and maintaining equipment, to taking reservations, to breaking it all down and storing the props - Paul is there directing the volunteers and making it happen.
To Paul and his family, and to all the individuals and families who donate their time and talents to this production each year, thank you. Thanks also to New Melle Sports and Rec for providing the facility each year so we all have the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful production. It is truly a labor of love and everyone’s efforts are appreciated!
Visit www.boonecountryconnection.com for photos from this year’s show.


Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane

Jesus and the apostles celebrating the Passover at The Last Supper.

Jesus is greeted in Jerusalem by a joyous crowd waving palms.

Jesus tells the Children it is easier for a  camel to pass through the eye of a needle
than it is for a rich man to enter into the Kingdom of God.

(L-R)  Gabi Pruitt, Sara Mittler, Adam Mittler (Jesus), Paul Mittler and Kim Coad.