If we view the crucifixion as a proclamation that Christ had to be crucified on a cross to save us from our sins, we are misunderstanding the intention. Wertin suggests that Jesus "did not come to save us. He came to show us that we're already loved by God. Jesus was an itinerant teacher who said not to fear defilement and impurity but to reach out [and face it.] Far more important to live in compassion. Jesus confronted purity codes that excluded people. We are called to a commitment of a new way of living." It was Jesus' subversive anti-war actions that so upset Roman law and ultimately put him on the cross. The all too literal interpretation that focuses on gratuitously violent elements of the crucifixion—one could say like the unrelenting violence from Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ film—is not a call to faith or inspiration to live God's word but rather a fear ridden belief that only suffering and penance will absolve you of sin.

This year's Passion reading, again under the superb direction of theater director Peter Rothstein, offered an exceptionally tight chorus of voices with distinct tonal quality: a poignant Nancy Gormley as the Narrator and a tenaciously strong and tender JP Fitzgibbons as Jesus along with fine readings from Christopher Hermann as Peter, Mia Debbins as a slave girl, Matt Woodling as Judas, Julie Madden as Caiaphas, Roger Dick as Pilot and Michelle Jansen and Rik Murray as several voices. The dramatic power of this reading deeply resonates because of such impeccable timing of voice and musical ambiance. The contributions of Anna Vagle and Shane Speltz's various percussion parts and Dan Chouinard's keyboard ability worked wonders.

The SJA Choir opened Palm Sunday service with the Christian Explainers South African spiritual "Blessed In the City" followed by an a capella treatment of John L. Bell's "First Born of Mary." Then the spirited congregation joined in for palm waving to "Prepare Ye The Way of the Lord."

The glorious gospel singer Robert Robinson accompanied by the Choir performed a beautiful rendition of the traditional spiritual "Jesus Lay Your Head In the Window." Arranged by the late Moses Hogan of whom Philip Brunnell says "In the world of 20th century choral arrangers, the name of Moses Hogan belongs right at the top of the list." A pleading for mercy bellows from Robertson's aching vocals with "Please forgive me, for I have fallen short of thy glory" while the choir with elegant legato articulated the title of the song in a melting decrescendo. Nancy Stockhaus delivered a gorgeous soprano obbligato bit while choir director Anna Vagle closed with a remarkably haunting flute solo.

Robinson and the SJA Choir brought the audience to their feet well before the finish of "Wondrous Day of Our God." Robinson began ever so softly then gradually built each verse until he soared with stunning redemptive power. The choir and Robertson closed with Kirk Frankl's "Now Behold the Lamb."

Michael Reinbold, a continuing web reporter, freelances as a writer and banquet caterer. A passionate believer in SJA's mission of social justice and collaborative ministry, Michael is an SJA Choir member, mass reader, Team Oz AIDS rider and Grace House volunteer cook. With an extensive background in theater, photography and fundraising, he relishes all aspects of the arts, staying fit and inspiring and working with people.

Palm Sunday Services at St. Joan's say so much about what we can learn about Jesus Christ and his death on the cross. They define how a low Christology approach to teaching the word of God calls the congregation to actively live the message of Jesus Christ. We are not to worship Jesus with hollow ritual but rather look to him as a human itinerant teacher. He came to transform and heal the world from oppression caused by those who use war. His message speaks even more clearly today than it did 2000 years ago.