Oak Brook's Christ Church presents 'The Passion'

Since its world premiere in 2004 at Christ Church Oak Brook, Greg Nelson's "The Passion" has become a Palm Sunday tradition for thousands of people.

The modern musical drama tells the story of Jesus' life, death and resurrection. It features an 105-voice Chancel Choir, 40-piece professional orchestra and 11 professional soloists, including members of the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and will be performed at 9 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday, March 25, in the sanctuary at 501 Oak Brook Road, Oak Brook.

"This is now an annual Palm Sunday event for us, and such an amazing experience to see in person," said the Rev. Daniel Meyer, senior pastor at Christ Church.

"I think people will benefit from hearing the performance for themselves and feeling the powerful message of this spectacular masterwork. It affects audiences the way that productions like 'Les Miserables' do. It's truly amazing."

Lyric Opera of Chicago members William Combs and Matthew Carroll will perform. Combs, a tenor, portrays Jesus. Carroll has multiple parts. There are also professional soloists and musicians who have performed across the country.

"In addition to these outstanding solo and orchestral musicians, our church choir, ranging in age from 25 to 95, is 105 voices strong," said Noelle Combs, classic worship director at Christ Church.

"There are very few church choirs in the country that can claim that distinction. I feel so blessed to work with such an outstanding caliber of musicians in this setting."

Admission to "The Passion" is free and child care is provided for kids younger than 4.

For details, visit cc-ob.org/passion.

Founded in 1965, Christ Church is a multisite, nondenominational church with more than 6,000 members. It features a variety of worship options, including both classic and contemporary services.