Presenter, Dave Compton, dramatizes the betrayal of the Disciple Judas during the Mesquite United Methodist Church’s Easter Cantata “Come to the Cross and Remember” which was presented on April 12 and 13. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

On April 12 and 13, the choir members of the Mesquite United Methodist Church presented a Cantata titled Come to the Cross and Remember in honor of the Easter Holiday.

Reverend Rick Casebolt, in his opening speech, hit the nail on the head when he said there would be something in the program that touches everyone somehow; there were several tissues used by the audience members throughout the program.

A Cantata is a medium-length narrative piece of music for voices with instrumental accompaniment, typically with solos, chorus, and orchestra.

Come to the Cross and Remember by Pepper Choplin was a beautiful production directed by Cathy Petrus and narrated by Gary Williams which took the church audience on a journey with Jesus during the days leading up to his crucifixion.

The symbolic burial shroud was hung on the cross to symbolize Christ’s burial during Mesquite United Methodist Church’s Easter Cantata “Come to the Cross and Remember” which was presented on April 12 and 13. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

As the journey progressed in song church members brought forth symbolic items to a cross, built for the occasion by Williams and set beside at the front of the church. Items included a sword and robe, crown of thorns, bread and wine and a shroud. Each item was dramatically presented and symbolized the many events that occurred before the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which was not to be celebrated until Easter morning of course.

Presenters at the cross were Dee Dee Latendresse, Billie Lape, Dave Compton, Jim Higby, Linda Reid and Sam Latendresse. Media Technician was Jean Cole, Sound Technician was Harold Laizure and Doris Points was the Pianist. A duet was sung by Miriam Brandt and Cynthia Good and David Hartline was the soloist.

For more information on the events at the Mesquite United Methodist Church check out their website at MUMCNV.org.