You will travel back in time to when Jesus walked the earth. When you leave your car, you will enter Jerusalem. From there, the story of that time will become reality and through it all, his journey will unfold before your eyes.

His last days began in 1984 when Carol Murphy, the wife of Pastor Bob Murphy of Dillard United Methodist Church, had a vision for a kind of outdoor cantata. She began asking friends, acquaintances, parishioners and even strangers to help her create an outdoor passion play. It was to be based on the musical by Dallas Holm, His last days written in the 1970s.

Homemade costumes were made. Scenes from the life of Jesus were reenacted around a mountain lake. And on that special first night, over 400 people came. This was the start of a production that, 40 years later, still draws huge crowds from all over the world. Murphy’s vision proclaims the Good News of Jesus Christ.

“Shortly after arriving in Rabun County in 1982, I began dreaming of producing an outdoor drama depicting the life and ministry of Jesus, taking advantage of the beautiful natural scenery of the mountains. His last days is a result of that dream. A choir and soloists provide live music and a narrator tells the “old, old story” while reenacting scenes of Jesus’ teachings, healings, arrests, trials, crucifixion, burial and resurrection,” Carol explained.

The Murphys’ son, Darren, played the role of Jesus for many years. The production became an integral part of the Murphy family.

“Every production is different because it brings the Bible to life. It allows people to see and understand what Jesus was about,” Carol added.

The men from Victory Homes help prepare the outdoor area, doing everything from weeding to removing branches and debris, cow patties and anything else to make it perfect for the night.

Ross Wheeler, pastor of Clarkesville Methodist Church, has played the role of Jesus for 17 years. He first became aware of the production as the new pastor of Dillard United Methodist Church. At the time, Pastor Bob Murphy was retiring as minister and Wheeler was invited to join. He began with the role of the disciple John, but was asked to keep an eye on the role of Jesus. The following year, he was asked to play Jesus and has played the role ever since.

“When I first started playing the role of Jesus, it was more of a need within me to be cast, which I was fulfilling. But over the years I became convinced that Jesus wants me to see his world through his eyes,” Wheeler said of the motivation to play the role for so many years.

The performance takes place on the grounds of the Tallulah Falls School next to a small mountain lake and has become a popular gathering place for the surrounding community. The premiere will be held on Saturday, August 31st and Sunday, September 1st at 7 p.m. in Tallulah Falls, Georgia.

Participation is free His last days. Everyone is welcome to attend this service. Donations are greatly appreciated and help support the continuation of the community service. We suggest donations of $10 for adults and $5 for children.

The drama lasts about an hour and a half. You should bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Also bring bug spray, sunscreen and any other things you need for a pleasant outdoor experience.

Handicapped parking and assistance are available. Please note that the drama takes place in a mowed field with uneven ground. Call 706-476-7939 for more information.