The youth choirs of the Members Church of God International (MCGI) staged ten musical Bible-based stories, ranging from the grandeur of the Egyptian empire to the heavenly sight of Christ’s ascension. The MCGI Music Ministry’s first ever Musical Play Festival was held on the nights of April 24 and 25, 2016.
Choristers playing Daniel, David and other biblical characters sang live before audiences gathered at the Ang Dating Daan Convention Center of MCGI in Pampanga. Other Coordinating Centers worldwide also tuned in via internet and satellite.
Each musical play touched the story of a biblical personage or two, retelling the triumph of their faith through poignant lyrics and melodies. The said stories were:
Some of the lyrics were taken right out of biblical passages; others used paraphrasing that preserved content and context while adding rhyme.
An awarding ceremony was also held after the curtain call on April 25th. “For us, you are all winners,” said Helper of the Ministry Bro. Danny Navales, one of the event’s judges.
The story of Moses as presented by the National Capital Region bagged the Best Musical Play award. Rizal Division, who told Joseph’s plight and success, received a plaque for being the best in set design. Other awards handed out were:
“We believe that your gifts were given to you that you may use them for the glory of our Creator,” the minister added.
Helper of the Ministry Bro. Roland Ocampo, who was present during the first night, and UNTV executives Bro. Bobby Delos Santos and Sis. Ruth Soriano also joined the judges’ table to oversee the biblical accuracy, general content, and message of the plays.
Meanwhile, Bro. Anton Estrella Jr. and Bro. Arnold Sanchez judged the plays’ technical aspects. Bro. Anton was the first A Song of Praise Grand Champion while Bro. Arnold is the owner and consultant of Art Edge.
At the end of the two-night event, “You have surpassed our expectations,” said Sis. Ruth to all of the participants. “And for you to be able to do such things, it is truly with the help of God.”
The BMPI-UNTV COO added that what they have seen were impressive, considering that the performers belong to choir groups with no professional theatre background nor training.
“We hope that this may serve both as a challenge and an inspiration to all,” said Bro. Danny.
The minister added that they are hopeful that the event may add unto the edification of faith of the youth who attended – being reminded of the sufferings and the plights of the many heroes of faith in the Bible, which they have depicted in music.
Come next year, the youth music ministry will once again busy themselves; albeit in making production numbers of praise for the glory of the Lord.
(Written by Rigor Arellano)