You will travel back to the days when Jesus walked the earth. When you leave your car, you will step into Jerusalem. From there, the story of what was will become real and through it all, His journey will unfold before your eyes.
His Last Days started in 1984 when Carol Murphy, wife of Pastor Bob Murphy of Dillard United Methodist Church had a vision of sorts of an outdoor cantata. She started asking friends, acquaintances, community members, and even strangers to help her create an outdoor passion play. It would be based on the musical by Dallas Holm, His Last Days written in the 1970s.
Homemade costumes were created. Scenes of Jesus’ life around a mountain lake were formed. And on that special first night, over 400 people came. It launched a production that 40 years later continues to draw huge crowds from all around. Murphy’s vision shares the Good News of Jesus Christ.
“Shortly after arriving in Rabun County in 1982, I began to have a dream of producing an outdoor drama that would depict the life and ministry of Jesus and would utilize the beautiful, natural scenery of the mountains. His Last Days is a result of this dream. A choir and soloists provide live music and a narrator tells the ‘old, old story’ as the scenes are enacted of Jesus’ teachings, healings, arrest, trials, crucifixion, burial, and resurrection,” Carol explained.
Darren Volk would play the part of Jesus for many years. His mother Jan Volk has been the director alongside Murphy for the forty years that the play has been in production. His father, Doug Volk, is the narrator.
“Every production is different because it brings the Bible to life. It enables people to see and comprehend what Jesus was all about,” Carol added.
The men from Victory Homes help prepare the outdoor field, doing everything from weed-eating, clearing limbs and debris, cow patties, and whatever else to make it perfect for the night.
Ross Wheeler, pastor of Clarkesville Methodist Church, has played the part of Jesus for 17 years. He first became aware of the production as the new pastor at Dillard United Methodist Church. At the time, Pastor Bob Murphy was retiring as a minister, and Wheeler was invited to participate. He began by playing the part of John the Disciple but was asked to keep a close eye on the part of Jesus. The following year, he was asked to play Jesus and has been doing it ever since.
“When I first started playing the part of Jesus, it was more of a casting need that I was fulfilling. But over the years, I have been convinced that Jesus wants me to look at His world through His eyes,” Wheeler spoke about the motivation for playing the role for so many years.
The production is held on the property of Tallulah Falls School beside a small mountain lake and has become a favorite “go-to” for the surrounding communities. Opening night is Saturday, August 31, and Sunday, September 1 at 7 p.m. in Tallulah Falls, Georgia.
There is no charge to attend His Last Days. Everyone is welcome to come share this worship experience. Donations are deeply appreciated and help support the continuation of the non-profit ministry. Suggested donations are $10 for adults and $5 for children.
The drama lasts approximately an hour and a half. You should plan to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Also bring bug spray, suntan lotion, and any other items you may need for outdoor comfort.
Handicap parking and assistance are available. Please be aware that the drama is in a mowed field with uneven ground. Call 706-476-7939 for more details.
