Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

A group of 30 youth and adults from nine parishes in the Lincoln area are preparing to stage a play titled “Jacques Fesch.” The production, written and directed by Patsy Urbanovsky of St. Mary Parish in Denton, tells the story of Jacques Fesch (1930-1957), who was convicted of murdering a police officer but later underwent a significant spiritual transformation during more than three years in solitary confinement in a French prison.

Urbanovsky described the subject as an example of redemption. “Jacques Fesch’s story is an incredible illustration of God’s mercy and forgiveness,” Urbanovsky said.

The play highlights the roles played by three individuals—a prison chaplain, a Benedictine monk, and a lawyer—in guiding Fesch toward faith. The script includes words attributed to Fesch: “I am saved in spite of myself; I am being taken out of this world because I was lost in it. The punishment that awaits me is not a debt that I have to repay, but a gift that the Lord is giving me.”

The cast has previously performed other productions focused on religious figures, including plays about St. Pier Giorgio Frassati, Bl. Franz Jagerstatter, Bl. Michael McGivney and the Knights of Columbus, Elisabeth and Felix Leseur, and St. Margaret Clitherow.

Performances will take place at The Vinton Family Barn at 1800 SW. 56th St., Lincoln on October 2-4 at 7 p.m., with an additional show on October 5 at 2 p.m. Admission is by free-will donation, but tickets must be reserved ahead through www.frassati.eventbrite.com or by calling Sandra at (402) 937-4467.

Urbanovsky advised that the play addresses mature themes due to its subject matter. For questions or further information, Sandra can be contacted.