April 29, 2009

Seminarians to perform inspiring story of Blessed Miguel Pro

By John Gleason

Men in formation at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver will present their spring production, “Viva Cristo Rey!” (“Long live Christ the king”) at 7:30 p.m. May 1 and 2 on the campus of the John Paul II Center.

The play tells the story of Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro Juárez, a Jesuit priest who was executed in 1927 during the persecution of the Catholic Church in Mexico. The play has a cast of 15 and is directed by seminarian Scott Bailey.

During the 1920s, the Catholic faithful in Mexico were forbidden to openly worship, threatened with severe penalties, including death.  It was in this environment that Father Pro set out to minister to his flock, going from house to house, pursued by government agents.

“His life is so inspiring,” Bailey said.  “He heard confessions and celebrated Mass in defiance of the suppressive government.  When authorities caught him they tried to make an example of him in hopes of scaring the population to keep them in line.”

Killed by firing squad, the government had the press photograph the execution. Before being shot, Father Pro held out his arms in imitation of Christ and cried out, “Viva Cristo Rey!”.

The government’s plan backfired.  The newspaper photo rallied the faithful.

“He became a hero,” noted Bailey.

Father Pro was beautified by Pope John Paul II in 1988.

Previous productions by the seminarians included “Murder in the Cathedral,” “Henry IV” and “A Man for All Seasons.”  Bailey said the audience can expect an enlightening and heartfelt performance.

“We’ve been in rehearsal since the beginning of February,” he said. “I think the audience will like what they see.”

“Viva Cristo Rey!” will be performed in the seminary refectory, 1300 S. Steele St.  Admission is free.