Hope Rises Brings Easter Story to Life

KEENE, TEX. – After a six-year hiatus, “Resurrection Story: Hope Rises” (formerly known as the resurrection pageant) returned this April to the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church. Held on Sabbath and Sunday of Easter weekend, the event drew thousands into a powerful, immersive experience of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. 

From the dusty roads of Galilee to the quiet repose of the empty tomb, participants stepped into the story, walking alongside characters who were grappling with the events of Christ’s death and resurrection. “Hope Rises” invited people of all ages to encounter Jesus anew, reminding us that His victory over sin and death is not just history but our living hope today.

In the lead-up to the event, weather forecasts predicted severe storms that could have made the production nearly impossible to carry out. As a church, we rallied in prayer and saw God literally hold back the storms, stopping the rain on both days before the first shows began. The 12 showings, eight in English and four in Spanish, drew more than 2,500 attendees.

Attendees spoke of tears shed, faith rekindled and hearts stirred toward a deeper trust in Christ. For many, it was more than a reenactment; it was a call to resurrection life—here and now.

More than 400 volunteers from the Keene English and Spanish churches, as well as other area churches, gave sacrificially of their time and talents, creating a space where neighbors, friends and strangers alike could meet Jesus in a fresh way.

As we reflect on this year’s journey, we joyfully celebrate not only what God has done but the renewed hope that rises in every heart willing to follow the risen Christ.

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By Michael Gibson, Pastor

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