The life of Christ … in Geneva

Using only a candle and a cape, actor and director Leonardo Defilippis will present a live, one-man drama on the life of Christ at St. Peter Church in Geneva.

"The Gift of Peace" will be presented at 7 p.m. Sunday at the church at 1891 Kaneville Road.

"It's a real challenge to take something from ancient times and bring it to life dramatically," Defilippis said.

A resident of Washington state, he will bring his one-man show to 11 churches and other venues in and around Chicago this Advent.

The play begins with Christ's infancy and tells the story of his early ministry using the words of the Gospel of Luke.

"The play is in English, but I will use some Hebrew to add culture and give it historical perspective, to create a flair, a tour de force," Defilippis said. "The play uses music and lights, also.

"I am a classically based actor, and when I use scripture, I try to lift it up, not dumb it down," he added. "The play tells the story of Christ and his miracles, the resistance and hardships he faced. It includes a message that is not always well-received."

Defilippis has been an actor, director and producer for 25 years. After performing in the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and at the Old Globe Theater in San Diego, he founded Saint Luke Productions in 1980. The nonprofit company creates and produces religious plays, television, films, DVDs and radio drama.

The company produced "Thérèse: The Story of St. Thérèse of Lisieux," which became a major motion picture in 2004. Defilippis directed and acted in the film, which tells the story of a young woman who died at age 24 and became a saint.

"Leonardo is a man of great faith," said the Rev. Joseph Jarmoluk, pastor of St. Peter Church. "His performances are wonderfully inspiring. Everything he does is from the heart. He's a great lover of Christ. We want to prepare our hearts for Christmas."

St. Peter Church is inviting the community to the free performance. Call (630) 232-0124 for information.

Defilippis also will present his show at 7 p.m. Dec. 19 at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1501 S. Main St., in Lombard.