What Is a Passion Play?
A Passion play is a reenactment of the gospel stories of Jesus’ trial, torture by Roman soldiers, and crucifixion, often with a focus on the carrying of the cross. During Holy Week, Christian groups may stage performances of Passion plays in churches or processions through streets; actors from the congregation play the roles of various characters in the gospels. While many Christians today find Passion plays moving, some interfaith experts consider Passion plays problematic because they have incited anti-Semitic violence in the past by blaming Jews for Jesus’ death.
