Andreas Montiel, 18, knew he wanted the part of Jesus when planning began for Sacred Heart Church’s annual re-enactment of the Passion of Jesus on Good Friday.
 
“Ever since I was a child I had a dream that I would someday play the part of Jesus Christ,” said Montiel, a Golden Valley student and member of  Corazones Juveniles — the youth group that performs the Passion play. 

The procession began at 12th and Canal, slowly winding its way through the neighborhood followed by a crowd of more than 600.

Their traditional version of the Passion included the usual suspects: Judas, King Herrod, Pontius Pilot, the Virgin Mary, etc … but it is really Jesus who carries the three hour re-enactment.

That’s probably because he carries a wooden cross for the entire Passion — all while being flayed, kicked, pushed and ridiculed into a state of delirium.

“During the third fall I became very tired,” Montiel said.

At that point Montiel still had to endure the climatic end — the crucifixion. The 12-foot cross was erected by Roman soldiers with Montiel hanging on by clenching large screws which also simulated his hands being nailed to the cross. 

As the Passion neared its end, Montiel as Jesus addressed the crowd before gasping his last breath. Soldiers then lifted his limp body from the cross and delivered him to Mary and Joseph.

 “It was very hard but we practiced,” Montiel said.  “I felt there was a lot of responsibility behind representing Jesus Christ.”

Montiel’s practice began two months ago as the dreary days of winter began to give way to the warm days of spring.

And it paid off. Montiel’s friends and fellow Juveniles members all agreed  that he did a great job.

As the tradition goes, a new Jesus will be chosen to play the part next year.