EVERETT — Do you know the story of St. John Vianney?
He was a 19th century French priest whose life was so remarkable that he is considered the patron saint of priests, said Carmen Godinez Sullivan, the director of religious education at the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish communities in Everett.
The parishes are sponsoring a performance of “Vianney” here in Everett next month.
“It’s really quite an opportunity we are bringing to Everett. Not just for Catholics, not just for Christians; for everyone,” Godinez Sullivan said.
The man behind the show is Leonardo Defilippis, a former Shakespearean actor.
He founded St. Luke Productions in 1980 and has toured the United States, Canada and Europe with performances based on stories about saints and the scriptures.
Christian theater is not a new idea, but Defilippis’ work is unique because it brings to life the stories so important to Catholics, Godinez Sullivan said.
The performance is meant to honor the priesthood — a timely and encouraging move, considering recent scandals surrounding Catholic priests, Godinez Sullivan said.
According to the story, Vianney battled Satan and emerged with a steadfast faith, said Casey Ross, the director of youth ministries.
He hopes that will resonate with the young people in his group. Kids are bombarded with so many messages today, Ross said. Some of these messages clearly conflict with Catholic beliefs.
In his youth group, Ross talks with young people about being able to handle peer pressure and to make choices with their faith in mind.
“Being Catholic means being able to stand up for who you are,” he said. “This story strengthens our faith and brings us closer to God.”
Some people already saw the performance in Everett earlier this year, at St. Mary Magdalen Parish. The theater company also brought a different show to the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady parishes a year or two ago.
The gymnasium at the Immaculate Conception was so packed that staff had to bring out the bleachers.
Katya Yefimova: 425-339-3452, kyefimova@heraldnet.com.
A performance of “Vianney” is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Mattie Hall Gymnasium at the Immaculate Conception Church, 2517 Hoyt Ave., Everett.
The play tells the story of the priest St. John Vianney.
$10 donation, $30 for a family of four or more.
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