In 2015, at just 12 years old, I had the privilege of participating in the Easter drama I’ve Seen Jesus: Encountering the Risen Christ (created by Robert Sterling and Deborah Craig-Claar) at my lifelong church, The Shepherd’s House Seventh-day Adventist Church in Wausau, WI.
The musical, which portrays Jesus’ encounters during the 40 days between His resurrection and ascension, left a lasting impression on me and profoundly shaped my view of Jesus during a formative season of my faith journey. Ten years later, the idea of reviving the production resurfaced—sparked unexpectedly when I found the original soundtrack still in my car’s CD player. Around that same time, a wave of incredibly talented young adults moved into the Wausau area. As we got to know one another, I shared the vision—and to my surprise, the idea quickly gained traction.
Jacob Martin, a Southern Adventist University graduate and accomplished concert pianist, was the first to jump in. Together, we presented the concept to the church board at The Shepherd’s House, and the response was overwhelmingly supportive. The board generously offered both financial support and hands-on help to bring the project to life. Jacob led the musical direction, assembling and conducting a multi-part choir and providing live accompaniment throughout the production.
We also partnered with Taylor Reiner—former Programs Director at Camp Cherokee in New York—and Jacob’s wife, Sarah Martin, to co-direct the drama, adapt the original script, and manage costumes and props. What began as a spark of inspiration soon became a full-scale effort. From January rehearsals to the April 12 performance, nearly every young adult in the church stepped in to contribute—whether by acting in lead roles, singing in the choir, running A/V, or designing and distributing flyers around town.
Our sanctuary was filled to capacity on the night of the production, and the room’s energy was electric. The outpouring of support from our church family, the local community, and the Wisconsin Conference of Seventh-day Adventists left us humbled and inspired. The kind words we received afterward were deeply moving—but more than anything, we were grateful for the chance to share this story and help reignite a sense of awe and gratitude for what Christ has done.
I believe that getting involved in church ministry is one of the most powerful ways for young adults and youth to connect—and stay connected—with their faith. When we show up, serve, and create together, something beautiful happens: purpose is found, community is built, and faith comes alive. Our generation is incredibly blessed to have those who’ve gone before us offer not just encouragement but prayer, support, and trust. Their investment is what makes projects like this possible—and what helps ensure that the church remains a place where every generation has a role to play.
If you missed the event, you can watch The Shepherd’s House’s live broadcast HERE.
Maria Sajdak-Husnick,
Writer for the Wakonda Wednesday’s Blog
