except, I ended up not. Anyway, I should note, first, that I meant "get a grip" in the most lighthearted way possible.

Second, I guess I wasn't really agreeing that you implied they were all unthinking rednecks - but I think there's an awful lot of emphasis being put on the passion play as a possible vehicle for anti-Semitism.

I had never been aware of the the historical evidence linking passion plays to direct anti-Semitism (and, I suspect, neither have most people). But I was aware of the kerfuffle surrounding Mel Gibson's flick. Or, I was for a day or two, until the topic was dismissed in my circle for being too ridiculous to warrant discussion.

The people attending this would surely be groups of religious families and organizations, wanting to be entertained and to re-experience their savior's sacrifice for their own sins. The premise is more "God so loved the world..." and "...Jesus died for your sins," than "The Jews so hated Jesus..." and "...then they killed him." I don't see any evidence implying that the people at this show felt any other way, either.

So I was surprised at your reaction when the time finally came to crucify Jesus. It seems a little much, given the circumstances. And it seems like the effort would doubtlessly prove to be in vain (and maybe just confusing, for spectators) considering how little reason we have to think anyone else was parsing the events of the performance as you were.

But then, I wasn't there, and maybe the experience was more emotional than I could understand. I'd certainly have to respect that- and I don't want to downplay anything that could potentially be a very important memory for you.