The St Anselm’s Rising Youth Ministry has been staging the Passion of Christ play since 2021
LONDON
Goans from the St Anselm’s Rising Youth Ministry (SARYM) of Southall staged a moving and powerful enactment of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ across four venues on six different days.
The production, under the stage direction of Mark Silva and spiritual guidance of Fr Jovito Dsouza, Parish Priest of St Anselm’s Church, Southall, was staged at Our Lady of the Visitation Church, Greenford, on March 21, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Hayes, on March 23, the St Anselm’s Church, Southall, (March 28, 29 and 30), before concluding at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Wembley, (April 5).
More than just a play, this re-enactment was a spiritual journey—a heartfelt portrayal of Christ’s final days that resonated deeply with all who attended.
Enacted by over 50 dedicated young people, including actors, props, media, and sound teams, the production reflected the spirit, talent, and faith of the youth community.
At the heart of the play was a compelling performance by Xainaldo Desouza, who took on the role of Jesus, bringing emotion and grace to the portrayal.
Catarina Rodrigues played Mary, conveying the strength and sorrow of a mother witnessing her son’s suffering. Their performances, along with the support of the entire cast and crew, helped bring the Gospel narrative to life in a way that was both moving and memorable.
Behind the scenes, the production was supported by a talented team. The props and makeup team, led by Lavina Norohna, along with costume designer Ascuena Colaco, paid close attention to historical detail, enhancing the realism of the scenes. The sound design, managed by Mark Monteiro and Ashwin Carvalho, provided an evocative soundtrack that heightened the drama and emotion of each moment.
“An audience of hundreds over the six days, marvelled at the production by our amateur actors,” said Mark Silva.
“Great care had been taken in the designing of the set, props and costumes, as well as the choice of music, all of which added an air of authenticity to the telling of the story, and many commented that it was a very helpful way to prepare for Holy Week and the arrival of Easter because it was a reminder to us all of Jesus’ sacrifice and love for us all.”
Many shared how the play deepened their understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice and helped them prepare spiritually for Holy Week and Easter.
“The attention to detail, the emotion in the performances, and the overall atmosphere made it an unforgettable experience,” one attendee noted.
The youth involved in the production expressed their gratitude and humility in participating in the production.
“It was a privilege for us to retell the story of Jesus’ last days—of blood, of pain, of suffering and sacrifice to a modern audience. This was followed by the joy of Easter: He is Risen!” one cast member shared. “We hope that all who witnessed the dramatic action with its music had a memorable experience.”
Fr Jovito Dsouza reflected on the significance of the production, stating, “The youth are the hope of the Church. Through the re-enactment of the Last Days of Jesus, they have shown who Jesus is for them. Moreover, they have journeyed with Jesus, just as Jesus always journeys with us.”
Added Mark, “Through devotion, teamwork, and faith, SARYM offered a powerful testament to the enduring message of the Passion: a story of suffering transformed by hope, and death overcome by love.”
St Anselm’s Rising Youth Ministry, founded by Fr Thairiyam SJ and Fr Gerard Mitchell SJ, is led by Youth Coordinator Mark Silva under the direction of Fr Jovito Dsouza, Parish Priest.
Since 2021, the group has staged the Passion of Christ play, evolving from a simple narrative into a full-scale contemporary performance. What began as a one-day parish event now reaches multiple parishes.
The dedicated team of around 50 young people gathers every Saturday in the church hall, growing in faith, fellowship, and creativity as they continue to bring the message of Christ’s love and sacrifice to wider audiences.
