MESA, Ariz. — In its 65th year, the Mesa Easter Pageant brought to life the story of Jesus Christ and provided a message of peace to those who attended the outdoor production.

Photo by Scott P. Adair

Richly costumed cast adds to quality of annual Mesa pageant.

Pageant director Nanci Wudel said there seemed to be a more reverent feeling to the pageant this year because of the world situation and that many came seeking to have their spirits uplifted. "They did find the Spirit here," she said, "and they left with a feeling of peace and hope."

"I think part of that was because our cast was so unbelievably humble and obedient," she said. "They had such a desire to bring that message of hope to the audience."

The pageant, "Jesus the Christ," which is performed on the grounds of the Mesa Arizona Temple, combines music, dance and drama to portray the story of Jesus. This year there were 430 cast members and hundreds more who worked behind the scenes. The production, which opened April 10, runs through April 19. More than 100,000 people are expected to attend.

For the first time, the first three nights of opening weekend were presented in Spanish and nearly 13,000 attended.

The Velazquez family of the Phoenix Arizona East Stake attended one of the Spanish performances where it was visible that many in the audience were emotionally and spiritually touched. "The Spirit was very, very strong," Olga Velazquez said. "It is wonderful that it is presented in Spanish. It is a lot better for us. A lot of Spanish-speaking people are embracing the gospel."

Her husband, David, a convert of two years, said he and many more in the audience were crying. "For one hour we forgot all our problems," he said. "I felt the same spirit that I feel in the temple — the same peace and spirit."

Brother Velazquez said he loved the scene where Jesus washed the feet of His apostles and felt that it served as a reminder to him. "Sometimes we forget we are neighbors, friends and family," he said. "We are too busy. We need to take the time to help anybody, anytime. That is what Jesus did."

Mariapaz Riveria of Phoenix also viewed a Spanish performance and found a message of peace. "Maybe in this life things won't get better, but you can get peace in your soul, even during times of war and conflict," she said.

She said that the entire program had teachings that could apply to everyone's daily lives, but the part that particularly touched her was the scene where Mary went to the tomb and recognized the Savior when He spoke to her. "When we take the time to listen to Him, then that is when we realize that He is there, and we can get close to Him," she said.

Sister Current, a full-time missionary who serves in the Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors Center and gave tours before and after the pageant, said she could tell that the spirit of the pageant had touched people. In tracting throughout the year she has found many people to talk with about the gospel who have seen the pageant. "It seems to leave a lasting impression," she said.

Elder Vasquez, a full-time missionary who served as a greeter at the pageant, spoke with many as they were leaving. "I think they found the peace of the Spirit here," he said, "and I think they took it home with them."