FORT SILL, Okla., March 31, 2016 -- Walking into the New Post Chapel, a scene unfolds at the front of the sanctuary. The image is reminiscent of the mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci, "The Last Supper," only rather than an image of oil on canvas, it is made of people posing as characters from the painting. The event was "The Living Last Supper" and took place at the chapel, March 24.
The characters were all volunteers from the chapel communities with some playing the same part they have played for multiple years. Rehearsal started March 1 and continued once a week said Sampson Tatum who played Andrew. Tatum has played the same character for the past five years and said he after so many years he had his lines memorized and didn't need much of a refresher. Tatum said after being given options on who to play, he chose Andrew who was a fisherman before he became a follower of Christ.
"I chose him because I like to fish," said Tatum laughing.
Chaplain (Lt. Col). Clark Rabe, senior pastor at the Old Post Chapel said the event has been going on at least since 1985 which is when the longest-attending chapel member arrived at Fort Sill.
The scene depicts a moment before the crucifixion when Jesus shares his final meal with his disciples. The image captured by the painting, and again in the Living Last Supper, is of the reaction of the disciples after Jesus announces one of them would betray him. As the event progresses, each character breaks from his pose to give a monologue expressing his thoughts on Jesus and whether they may be the one to betray him.
"It shows the 12 disciples were human like us," said Rabe. "They show that in spite of our failures and sin, God knows all about that and offers a fresh start for all of us."
The monologues were grouped in threes with songs performed between groups. Following the production, communion was offered and a final song was sung by those in attendance. Then the audience was invited to come take photos while the characters posed once more.
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