Thousands Attend UMHB’s 85th Annual Easter Pageant

BELTON, Texas-Thousands of people turned out to see the reenactment of the crucifixion of Christ at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor's 85^th annual Easter Pageant on March 27 in front of Luther Memorial.

The student-led tradition chronicles moments from the Gospel story, including Christ's triumphal entrance into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, Christ's trial by Pontius Pilate, crucifixion, death, and resurrection.

The planning and production involved hundreds of students, children, and grandchildren of faculty and staff. This year's three performances drew thousands of people to campus and many more worldwide viewed via live stream. The video is still available to view on the UMHB Facebook page and at www.umhb.edu/live.

Each year, UMHB President Dr. Randy O'Rear selects a student to direct the pageant and two students to play the key roles of Mary and Jesus. The students who fulfill the two key roles are chosen based on their strong Christian faith and character.

Victoria Hernandez, a senior biology major from Robstown, took on the role of Mary. It is Victoria's first year participating in the Easter Pageant, and she believes it is a role God called her to play. "When Dr. O'Rear asked me, I was shocked. I didn't know what to think, but it was suddenly an automatic yes," she explained of her experience. "For me, I knew UMHB was a place where I could grow my faith. And this was definitely an opportunity for that to happen."

Dillon Moore, a senior general studies major from Adkins, portrayed Jesus this year. In previous years, he portrayed a Roman guard and the disciple John. When asked to serve as Jesus, he said, "I went out to Luther Memorial and sat at the foot of the cross and prayed. I told God, 'Are you sure? Lord, I really need you to take the reigns on this. It's unlike anything I've ever done before.' Then, it was an intense feeling of yes!" He added, "in this process, I've learned that the Lord is faithful. God has been my strength through this whole thing."

Zoey Holder, a junior psychology major from Dallas, served as this year's pageant director. Aynslee Barber and Jacob Carter served as Holder's assistant directors. Barber is a senior psychology and sociology major from Lake Jackson, and Carter is a senior transformational development major from Buda.

The tradition of the annual Easter Pageant at UMHB began in 1940 when it was held during the afternoon on Easter Sunday. At that time, Mary Hardin-Baylor was an all-female campus, so all of the roles were played entirely by women. Over time, the production expanded to include male students and additional performances.