The following stations are ideas for visuals that can accompany the Easter Experience Audio.
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Station 1 – Introduction
Start by displaying images or pictures of the journey people are about to experience, walking with Christ to the cross. Include on a table an old-fashioned water picture and bowl to emphasize the idea of approaching the Lord with “clean hands and a pure heart.” In Jesus’ time, Jews would pour water over their hands before eating, an important ritual He and His disciples would have followed before the Passover Meal. As participants enter, you could invite them to wash their hands in this way to begin their experience.
Station 2 – The Last Supper
Set up a rustic, wooden table resembling those used in Jesus’ day, where people reclined to eat. To be more historically accurate, use three tables arranged in the shape of a “U” |__|, with cushions placed around the outer sides for seating. Enhance the atmosphere by adding a few first-century oil lamps, as the Passover meal took place after sunset. On the table, display Passover foods like unleavened bread (matzah), etc., and a bowl with a linen towel, representing the act of washing the disciples’ feet. You could also include a replica of a first-century sandal for added authenticity.
Station 3 – The Garden of Gethsemane
Create a simple garden with a few trees, rocks, and places to sit. A small bowl of olives could be included, reflecting the olive grove and olive press most likely found in Gethsemane. If possible, place a short sword as a symbol of Peter’s action in the garden, where he cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant.
Station 4 – The Trials
Recreate a scene with fake fires to represent the chilly night when Peter and others warmed themselves around flames. Set up a raised platform where a crowd could face the high priest. You could include a torn robe, symbolizing the one the high priest tore in response to Jesus, and perhaps a few signs of mockery or accusation to reflect the trials and false charges. You might also include a Judas Bag with 30 pieces of Shekel replicas. Even though Judas was already paid at this point, it still represents the agreement he made with the religious leaders to betray Jesus.
Station 5 – The Scourging
Provide a Roman scourge (called a Roman flagrum), typically used in scourging. To set the scene, you could have a sturdy, weathered whipping post with ropes hanging from it. This would represent the brutal scourging Jesus endured, where two soldiers usually administered the beating, one on each side of the victim who was tied to the post.
Station 6 – The Crown & Barabbas
Display a Crown of Thorns and a reed (which could be a walking stick) as symbols of the mocking of Jesus. Include a basin and towel to represent how Pilate symbolically washed his hands, trying to absolve himself of responsibility for Jesus’ condemnation.
Station 7 – To the Cross
Set up a display with the Cross Beam and crucifixion nails. This station could represent the moment Jesus began His journey to the cross, showing the physical tools that were used in His crucifixion.
Station 8 – The Crucifixion
Provide a wooden cross, about 7-9 feet tall with the cross beam. Set up an area with pieces of paper and pens, where visitors can write down their sins or struggles and nail them to the cross. This allows participants to personally engage with the symbolic act of surrendering their burdens.
Station 9 – The Veil is Torn
Install a thick curtain, symbolizing the veil in the temple that separated the Holy of Holies. According to scripture, it was made of fine linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, colors associated with divine presence and holiness (Exodus 26:31-33). While your curtain may not be 60 feet tall, it should represent the barrier between God and humanity that was torn at Jesus’ death. You might add Bible verses about the veil or place a light behind it, symbolizing God’s presence breaking through after the veil was torn.
Station 10 – Preparation of the Body
Display a linen burial cloth, representing how Jesus’ body was wrapped by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus (John 19:38-42). You could place small jars of myrrh, aloes, or spices on a table, symbolizing the anointing and preparation of Jesus’ body for burial. Include a few crucifixion nails, as well as paper and pens where people can write down their sins or struggles, symbolically leaving them behind in the tomb area.
Station 11 – The Empty Tomb
Create the opening of a tomb, with a bright light shining from within and the linen cloth used for burial neatly folded nearby. This station symbolizes the resurrection, with the tomb no longer holding Jesus’ body.
Closing Reflection
Once the experience is complete, have someone offer a brief summary and an invitation to surrender lives to Christ. Create a quiet space nearby for individuals to sit, reflect, and pray. This can be a deeply personal moment, encouraging participants to ponder the significance of Jesus’ journey. Additionally, provide leaders nearby for anyone who may want to talk, pray, or ask questions.
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