‘Lamb of God’ musical returns, donations benefit historic church restoration
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News from "Lamb of God" organizers
An incredible, unbelievable interfaith cast of talented soloists, narrators, choir and symphony orchestra are bringing this powerful and stirring biblical masterpiece to the Mission Valley for one more Easter season. Performances will be held on April 3, 5, and 7 at the historic Catholic mission in St. Ignatius and also at St. Anthony’s Church in Missoula on April 16 and 17 and at the Ronan Performing Arts Center on Easter Eve, April 20. All performances will begin at 7 p.m. and are free to the public. Donations for the historic St. Ignatius Mission restoration are welcomed.
Written by acclaimed composer Rob Gardner, “Lamb of God” is a sacred musical retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, His atonement and resurrection. It recounts the events through the eyes of those who loved Him and knew Him best. Those who participated last year, either as performers or audience, were left undeniably touched.
The historic St. Ignatius Mission has a huge beam that's cracked underneath the front of the church. The beam has now been fixed, but the repairing of the frescos has barely begun. The restorative process is delicate and expensive - requiring the skills of trained artisans. Last spring, with the funds donated during the production of “Lamb of God,” the process of restoration began. As the three specialists commissioned to do the work began the plaster work, they found that there were areas in the ceiling of the church where the plaster had separated from the lathe that holds it. They expressed that they didn’t understand what was even holding the plaster in place.
How fortunate and timely was the generous donation of time and talent by those who shared in order to create “Lamb of God” for this valley last year. Also, how important and timely was each dollar so generously donated last year by the audience.
The historic St. Ignatius Mission was built between 1891 and 1893 and was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1973. The 58 beautiful frescos were painted by the mission cook, Brother Joseph Carignano, an untrained artist. To those who donated last year to the restorative work, this valley owes a huge debt of gratitude. Without your generosity the work could not have started immediately.
Last year’s production of “Lamb of God” played to “standing room only” audiences. Audience members rose in standing ovations after each production ended. Truly an impressive array of talent was witnessed as audience members raved over the choir, orchestra, and soloists. Comments such as: “I thought I was listening to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir - amazing!” - “I have to see this again … are you doing it again?” - “I started weeping during the first song and continued until the last note was sung.” - “I have never been more touched!” - “In doctrine it was spot on and so many faiths of people uniting. This is incredible!” were heard over and over throughout the audience and throughout the following weeks by choir members.
If you came last year, come again and bring your friends and family members. The new director, Derek Larson, is an incredibly gifted musician and has brought these talented soloists, orchestra members and choir members to a new level. Please clear your schedule and come receive this message of hope. This is a message we all need so badly in our lives. It is the message that our children and grandchildren need so badly as well. If you (or those you love) struggle, if you hurt, if you feel alone, if you’ve wondered where you can find peace in this ever-changing and troubled world, please come. If you have ever questioned God’s love for you, please come find a seat in the audience and experience this “Balm in Gilead.” You’ll see why “Lamb of God” has become so many people’s favorite musical score.
The show's producers are Janis Cates, Nancy Eastham, and Rita Tingey.
