The St. Lorenzo Ruiz Parish Community in Walnut has created an unconventional and ambitious way to celebrate the feast of their patron saint, Lorenzo Ruiz, and culminate the Year of Faith in a most meaningful way. “A Man of God: Lorenzo Ruiz, His Life in Music,” a musical play depicting memorable and salient moments in St. Lorenzo Ruiz’s life, will be presented on his feast day, Sept. 28, 7 p.m. at the San Gabriel Valley Mission Playhouse. The play, immersed in the beauty, culture and historical backdrop of Manila and Japan in the early 17th century, promises to elicit spiritual awakening, or a form of cathartic release, said Father Tony Astudillo, pastor of St. Lorenzo Ruiz Church. “The compelling scenes of Christian persecution by the shoguns of Japan and the unbreakable and vindicable faith of Lorenzo Ruiz, an ordinary family man, and his martyr companions, towards the end of the play, will seem as though the denouement will mold itself into a rewarding climax,” said Father Astudillo. The play is written and directed by longtime parishioner Naomi Cayaba-Lewis, head of the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Devotion Group. Bob Shroder, flutist, founder and conductor of the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, is the musical director, and Auxiliary Bishop Oscar Solis and the Trinitarian nuns have offered to perform. “The continuous effort of the parish to put St. Lorenzo Ruiz’s stance in the extraordinary context of courage in faith despite the ordinariness of his life shall hopefully inspire and bring him to the minds and hearts of all as set in this creative medium,” said Father Astudillo. Tickets are $65, $55, $45 and $35, and may be purchased by contacting Bong Anonas, (909) 472-5297, or the parish office, (909) 595-9545. For more information, email [email protected].