Hanceville pageant spans 22 churches, many denominations

First Baptist Church, Hanceville, in East Cullman Baptist Association — along with 21 other churches crossing denominational lines — is presenting “Jesus Through Peter’s Eyes.” An annual event for the past 17 years, this year’s Hanceville community Easter pageant is April 6–9 at 7 p.m. with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday. 
   
Each year, David Thomas, drama director and scriptwriter for the pageant, envisions the traditional Easter story from a new perspective. 
   
This year’s show begins with the crucifixion of Christ and proceeds through Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, Pentecost and the persecution of the first church — all through the eyes of Peter.
   
“It is neat to be standing between a Lutheran and a Church of God member flanked by a Methodist with a floor prompter who is a Church of Christ (member),” Thomas said. “What is unbelievable is that we all get along. I think heaven will be like that.” 
   
Susan Hazelrig, a member of First, Hanceville, and regular participant in the pageant, agreed. 
   
“This is my 12th year to be involved in the pageant. It is a highlight of my year,” she said.
   
Last year, 23 churches from at least five denominations took part in the production. 
   
“We come together as a community to share the gospel of Christ,” Hazelrig said. “The pageant also gives us a very minute taste of what Christ had to endure so that we can have eternal life.”  
   
Randy Mahaffey, pastor of First, Hanceville, who plays a crippled man in this year’s show, said the purpose of this production is to visually illustrate the hope that Christ has given through His death, burial and resurrection.
   
“There is hope for every person,” Mahaffey said. “As long as there is life, there is hope.”