TV and film star to perform Gospel

SPARTA — Television and film actor Frank Runyeon will bring his acclaimed performance of The Gospel of John: The Book of Signs to Blessed Kateri Church for one night — Saturday, Jan. 17, at 7:30 p.m. Runyeon starred opposite Meg Ryan on As the World Turns in the 80s, as well as on Santa Barbara, Falcon Crest, General Hospital, LA LAW, and Melrose Place. He also starred in the feature film, Sudden Death. But Runyeon has recently pursued a very different career. He has performed the gospel for hundreds of thousands of people in almost every state in America. His one-man plays of Scripture have won high praise from church leaders and scholars of all denominations, as well as from the secular press. People Magazine called his performance of The Gospel of Mark: “Remarkable! Runyeon brings his charm center stage.” Runyeon is a graduate of Princeton University, pursued graduate studies at Yale Divinity and received his Masters degree, with honors, from General Theological Seminary in New York City. He is now pursuing his doctorate in Biblical Studies. His newest performance, the Gospel of John, is set in darkness and candlelight, with theatrical lighting. Its text is drawn from the first 11 chapters of the Gospel of John, translated into contemporary American speech. Runyeon tells the story in the present tense with the characters and settings and lights constantly shifting. It is appropriate even for grade school children. After the performance refreshments will be served and Runyeon will be available to discuss the Gospel of John and Jesus’ message. Tickets are $15 per person, $40 per family. Free babysitting is available for children under age 8. For more information, call: 973-729-4722.