For a second year, parishioners at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Homestead, Florida, can experience Holy Week through 10 vivid dioramas in the church’s narthex. Senior warden Ahmed Otero created these three-dimensional scenes that depict key moments in Jesus’ final days, from Palm Sunday to the Resurrection.

A Personal and Spiritual Journey for the Artist

Otero, inspired by the nativity scenes of his Cuban childhood, crafted the dioramas to extend that visual storytelling to Lent. After displaying nativity sets at St. John’s for several years, he introduced the Holy Week dioramas in 2024. He constructs the settings using household items like cardboard and Styrofoam, while the 10-inch figures, many collected over decades, add realism and emotional weight.

Interactive Experience Enhances Reflection

This year, Otero arranged the dioramas on separate tables, allowing visitors to engage more deeply with each scene. He compares the setup to a pilgrimage through Christ’s Passion. “It’s a whole journey,” he said, highlighting how viewers walk from Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem to the Resurrection.

Impact on Parish Community and Youth

The dioramas resonate with both children and adults. Students at the church’s school visit the display, and Otero hopes the experience sparks future spiritual callings. Adults have shared that the scenes help them better remember and connect with the events of Holy Week, much like stained-glass windows once did for medieval Christians.

Support, Labor, and Vision for Growth

Though creating Christmas and Holy Week displays is time-consuming, Otero receives help from his wife, who assists with setup and cleanup. He also envisions involving students in future displays, teaching them to craft scenery and deepening their engagement with the church. “We want people to get involved,” he said.

Supporters Praise, Critics Question Effort and Focus

Supporters say the dioramas enrich faith and create a meaningful experience. However, some question whether the time and resources might be better spent on broader church programs. Despite that, Otero remains committed to making faith more tangible.

Source:

Florida church displays parishioner’s hand-crafted Holy Week dioramas

Photo by ?? on Unsplash

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