BELTON, Texas—Thousands of people turned out to see the reenactment of the crucifixion of Christ at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s 86th annual Easter Pageant on April 16 in front of Luther Memorial.
The student-led tradition chronicles moments from the Gospel story, including Christ’s triumphal entrance into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, Christ’s trial by Pontius Pilate, crucifixion, death, and resurrection.
The planning and production involved hundreds of students, children, and grandchildren of faculty and staff. This year’s three performances drew thousands of people to campus and many more worldwide viewed via live stream. The video is still available to view on the UMHB Facebook page. For the first time in Easter Pageant history, a Spanish version of the program is also available to watch at Easter Pageant 2025 - Campus Activities.
Each year, UMHB President Dr. Randy O’Rear selects a student to direct the pageant and two students to portray the key roles of Mary and Jesus. The students who play the two key roles are chosen based on their strong Christian faith and character.
Emily Huynh, a senior marketing and management major from Richardson, took on the role of Mary. Emily has participated in the Easter Pageant every year she’s been at UMHB, so she’s gotten to experience it in a variety of ways. “Having the opportunity to portray Mary has taught me so much. Mary was full of grace and mercy, and her willingness to be faithful to God’s call even when it meant to suffer is something I am continuing to learn in my walk as a follower of Jesus,” she explained of her experience.
Banner Scarborough, a senior entrepreneurship and small business major from Lubbock, portrayed Jesus this year. When asked about serving in this role, he said, “Being a disciple in last year’s Easter Pageant absolutely changed my life. I learned what it looks like to be a disciple, surrender, and go all in for Jesus. I learned that last year and am stepping into that in a new light this year,” Scarborough shared. “God has continued to put Proverbs 3:5-7 on my heart throughout this process. That has been a truth I’ve had to live off of this year.”
Victoria Kuntz, a senior public relations major from Los Fresnos, served as this year’s pageant director. “Easter Pageant has been such a blessing. I have learned so much about myself and the Lord, as well,” Kuntz shared. “He has shown me through Easter Pageant what the body of believers can do when they all work together.” Erin Doyle and Brock Pfrommer have served as Kuntz’s assistant directors. Doyle is a senior nursing major from Kingwood, and Pfrommer is a senior mass communication major from Katy.
The tradition of the annual Easter Pageant at UMHB began in 1940 when it was held during the afternoon on Easter Sunday. At that time, Mary Hardin-Baylor was an all-female campus, so all of the roles were played entirely by women. Over time, the production expanded to include male students and additional performances.
