Their play, The Passion of Christ: His Love, Our Hope, directed by Youth Coordinator, Mark Silva, is more than a performance—it is a living reflection of faith, creativity, and community, bringing the Ignatian approach to the Passion vividly to life.
Each year, around 40 young people from the parish’s SARYM (St Anselm’s Rising Youth Ministry) step into the story, contributing as actors, narrators, and members of the technical team. From lighting and sound to costumes and props, every element is a collaborative effort, reflecting not just skill but a shared journey of faith. Silva says, “It’s more than a play; it’s a way for young people to encounter Christ, to reflect on his love and sacrifice, and to grow together in faith.”
The production aligns closely with the Ignatian tradition of contemplating the Passion. Rather than simply witnessing Christ’s suffering, participants and audiences alike are invited to enter the story personally, imagining themselves present in each scene. This approach encourages compassion, reflection, and a transformative encounter with Jesus—hallmarks of Jesuit spirituality. It also mirrors the parish’s broader mission of cura personalis, or care for the whole person, nurturing both the spiritual and artistic development of its young people.
Over the years, the production has grown in scale and reach. Last year, the team delivered seven performances across different parishes; this year, five shows will take the story from Southall to Peterborough. Each performance aims to draw audiences into a deeper reflection on love, sacrifice, and hope, echoing Ignatius’s call to not only observe Christ’s Passion but to meet him in it personally.
Set within the vibrant and culturally diverse community of Southall, the Passion Play also fosters confidence, leadership, and friendship among participants. Weeks of preparation, rehearsals, and teamwork create a space where faith and creativity flourish together. “In Southall, we are witnessing a generation of young people who are not only finding their voice but using it to inspire hope, unity, and faith within our community,” Silva reflects.
The fifth anniversary of the Passion Play is a celebration of this journey. For parishioners, supporters, and audiences, it is a chance to witness young people engage deeply with the story of Christ, and to see faith expressed through creativity, collaboration, and service—a vivid example of Jesuit values in action.
You can find out more about the Jesuit parish in Southall by visiting the website.
You can watch a video about the St Anselm's Rising Youth Ministry here:
