Saturday, October 18, 2025

Off School Property


Off School Property: Solving the Separation of Church and State

Documentary | One Night Only | Oct 23 | Runtime 90 min

How did we get here? For generations, the Bible and prayer were part of public education. But decades ago they were systematically removed, leaving schools—the future-making factories of our nation—without the foundation that shaped so much of our culture.


The new documentary "Off School Property" is hitting theaters on October 23 for one night only. The film exposes how a biblical worldview has influenced every aspect of our society, and that removing it was like pulling the wrong piece from a Jenga tower — it has destabilized everything.

But here’s the surprise—while the Bible was being removed, an obscure 1952 Supreme Court ruling paved the way to bring it back. This solution has been sitting right under our noses for 70 years and it allows students to study the Bible—legally—during the public school day.

Today, communities across the nation are rediscovering this opportunity. The movement is spreading coast to coast—and it’s coming to a town near you.

The question isn’t just what happened? The question is… what will we do now?

BUY TICKETS HERE! Watch the trailer:


LINKS:




Wednesday, October 15, 2025

GROW

 

GROW Synopsis: In the Pumpkin Capital of the World, stoic farmer Dinah Little (Golda Rosheuvel) begrudgingly takes in her spirited niece, Charlie (Priya-Rose Brookwell). But Charlie isn’t an ordinary child—she has a special knack for connecting with plants that quietly reflects her own longing to feel just as seen and loved. As the town prepares for the annual pumpkin-growing contest, Charlie sets her sights on winning.

With the help of quirky Arlo (Nick Frost), plot and pumpkins thicken as rival growers pull every trick in the book. 
Will Charlie and Dinah’s unlikely entry stand tall against the fiercest competition the town has ever seen? As her pumpkin grows, so does her bond with Dinah, and together they learn the real prize is joy, laughter, and family.

Pumpkin spice in film form, GROW is perfectly timed for fall and Halloween 
season: cozy, funny, and a safe, whimsical alternative to scary movies. Yet, at the heart of GROW is the touching bond between a prickly aunt and her spirited niece. Their journey shows that sometimes the family we need grows where we least expect it.

BUY YOUR TICKETS: FathomEntertainment.com/Grow


MY REVIEW: If you love Autumn, pumpkins, fairs, and quirky characters, GROW is meant for you! From curmudgeonly farmers to over-the-top rivals, every character feels like they’ve stepped out of a cozy, autumnal fairy tale. Charlie’s pumpkin “Peter” isn’t the only thing full of personality—the whole town bursts with quirky charm. Charlie is new, having recently and reluctantly been placed with her Aunt Dinah, and is unsure how to fit in. Things change when Charlie's special gift for communicating with plants, plus the prize money, leads to her interest in the annual pumpkin-growing contest held in the village. The competition is fierce and the contestants will stop at nothing to win.

There are a lot of laughs, and older kids will appreciate much of the humor (GROW is rated PG for a couple of suggestive comments and thematic elements). There were a couple of slightly cringey moments for me, but I did enjoy the movie and laughed a lot. For me, even more than the enormous pumpkin, was the small spark of love between Charlie and Aunt Dinah that continued to GROW as they realized they needed one another and wanted to be together. 

I mostly review faith-based films, and this is not one. However, GROW absolutely contains values of family, friendships, and fun. For the Fall enthusiast who can’t get enough of pumpkin season...
 🍂🎃 you will want to enjoy this family movie. #GrowTheFilm. Get your tickets now!

LINKS:

BUY TICKETS

Facebook

Instagram


Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card!
Please submit your full name and email address by 10/22/2025.

Disclosure: Many thanks to US Pumpkin Distribution, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.



Monday, October 13, 2025

Christmas at the Cabin trailer

Christmas at the Cabin” is the ultimate feel-good family Christmas movie of the season! Starring Todd Terry, Marianne Haaland, Corey Cannon, Sharon Oliphant, and Stacey Sheffield. Make your plans to watch in theaters this Christmas!

Visit christmasatthecabinmovie.com to watch the trailer and learn more about this upcoming holiday film.



 https://www.youtube.com/shorts/bgM4pCGJbkg

Synopsis: Michelle and Josh are ready for a cozy Christmas at their cabin. They invite their friend Poppy to join. Simple, right? Not quite. On the way, their car skids into a snowbank. When they finally reach the cabin, the door is wide open. Then, in true holiday chaos, they accidentally bear-spray Josh’s old college buddy, Guy — who showed up uninvited.

Michelle, who loves a good plan, struggles with Guy’s wild energy. He drives her crazy... but somehow boosts Poppy’s confidence with his charm and antics. When a blizzard hits, tensions skyrocket. After one too many of Guy’s offhand jokes about God, Michelle snaps. She storms out into the storm — and quickly gets lost.

Enter Luke, a rugged stranger who rescues her. With his quiet wisdom, he helps Michelle realize how much her need for control is costing her. Back at the cabin, Michelle opens up to Josh and Poppy. Old wounds heal. New laughter fills the air. As the snow clears, they leave the cabin with a stronger bond — and a Christmas they'll never forget.

“Christmas at the Cabin” delivers a touch of chaos and laughter, plenty of heart, and one truly unforgettable Christmas. Beautiful scenery blends with original music and beloved holiday classics, making this a perfect film for the entire family. 

LINKS 


CHRISTMAS AT THE CABIN

christmasatthecabinmovie.com

Facebook

Instagram

TikTok

YouTube

FAITH CHANNEL

faithchannel.com

Facebook

Instagram



Saturday, October 11, 2025

Super Bowl and Halftime Show

Out of 59 Super Bowls, I only remember watching 1; I prefer college football. The snack and party recipes are more likely to grab my attention, but I feel no sense of obligation to prepare, serve, or eat certain foods on one particular day of the year... I don't even do that for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or other traditional times of gathering with other people.

I usually have little interest in most of the halftime shows. I may see bits and pieces, especially now that they are all over the internet. Michael Jackson (Super Bowl XXVII) is the last time I remember making the effort to watch. I was not very interested in the "Up With People" performances during my childhood & teen years, either. Since the "wardrobe malfunction" of the 2004 Super Bowl, I definitely have not watched a live performance. Not even Prince in 2007; I watched video later. I looked up Bad Bunny & have zero interest in watching him perform. He's one musician out of thousands I normally don't listen to, originally because I had never heard of him, but I have now listened to some of his music and he's not someone I am likely to listen to again. I am not "boycotting" him. I don't care if he is Puerto Rican; my children and their descendants have Puerto Rican ancestry. (By the way, my married last name is through my former husband's paternal Filipino ancestry.) I don't care if he sings in Spanish; I know a handful of Spanish words (which is more than my husband knew. He also did not speak Tagalog.) so I am unlikely to understand him, but there is Spanish music I enjoy. Frankly, after the lyrics I read of one song, I am thankful I could not mentally translate his vocals. He has a beautiful voice, but I dislike the message.
I admit, I have been confused by seeing angry and sarcastic remarks of, "Bad Bunny is American! 😠" After all, "American" has never been a requirement for any performer that I am aware of on any program. Then I saw that Turning Point USA is promoting their "All-American Halftime Show."

THAT helped clarify. Some people have chosen, either innocently or deliberately, to ignore the intended meaning of the phrase "All-American." It has nothing to do with nationality in this case. Honest, wholesome, hardworking, and moral have become words offensive to some people, but that has been the implied attributes for most of my life. It is clearly evident that people have varying definitions for honest, wholesome, hardworking, and moral!
To be fair, no one wants to be criticized. That is understandable, but it's also hard to have a reasonable conversation when people have vastly different interpretations of what words actually mean. Unfortunately, I love consistency, and hate that some words do change their meanings either slightly or completely. The reasons behind the changes also vary. I hear people shout accusations using words that obviously have a different meaning for them than they do for me. I honestly think some people just grab a word that has a negative implication and throws it out as an insult. This isn't new, but is growing more common...and frustrating. This is further complicated by not knowing if whomever is posting is an actual human. I also have never kept up with "slang" or popular phrases that come and go as varying groups want to have their personal impact in the world. There is an excellent chance I will be watching the TPUSA special since the performers are most likely ones I listen to often...and the chance of me being interested in the Super Bowl game, halftime show, or even the commercials (gasp!) are very slim. However, it is certainly not to be defiant or boycott, or to score points against any person, group, or organization. I do wish this wasn't being promoted as an "alternative" halftime show since I am sick of every single thing that happens being a combative issue. I have opinions...STRONG OPINIONS
😉... but not in the mood to argue with random strangers who are determined to find fault in every single opinion that does not align with their personal (or copied word-for-word) opinion. I don't even agree with all of the people who are on "my side" of the issue. Honestly, I must confess...I simply do not care if you watch SUPER BOWL LX, TurningPointUSA, reruns of "I Love Lucy," read a book, go to church, go bowling, take a walk, listen to Beethoven, or any number of other activities (that aren't harming anyone).


Thursday, September 18, 2025

Dot Conner: Webtective

DOT CONNER: WEBTECTIVE is the family mystery adventure movie you've been waiting for!

Internet sleuth (or "webtective") Dot Conner (Gili Gould) receives a cryptic phone call from her father (Drew Waters) on the eve of her first day of high school, plunging her into an adventure she never expected to face. As Dot navigates the rocky start of her high school life, she uncovers the first of many clues her father has left behind, setting her on an urban treasure hunt with friends Makayla (Lauren McCardell) and Alex (Ethan Pogue). Their quest leads them through the city, crossing paths with dangerous Russian thugs as they go. What begins as a search for her father quickly unravels into a much larger mystery, revealing his deep involvement in the world of espionage. Amid the chaos, Dot discovers the truth of Philippians 4:13, proving that even in the darkest times, faith can light the way.

 Dot Conner: Webtective opens in theaters on Sept. 19th. Find theaters and Buy Tickets at dotconner.com/tickets. Watch trailer below:


MY REVIEW: I enjoyed it. While the primary audience would likely be 8-12 years old, Dot Conner: Webtective can definitely be enjoyed as a Family Movie Night/Matinee film. When i was younger, I loved Nancy Drew, Trixie Beldon, The Hardy Boys, and any other mystery series that involved kids my age or a bit older. Dot Conner: Webtective would easily fit into that genre. 

There are foes to face ranging from a "mean girl" to "Russian thugs" but these bad guys would probably feel at home on a episode of "Scooby Doo" or "Rocky and Bullwinkle." The tense moments don't last too long, but add enough excitment to build suspense on how the heroes will escape and defeat their enemies. The main two thugs (Jason Marsden, John Brady) also are the comic relief; they made me laugh several times. 

Dot and her 2 best friends are great role models for kids and I loved how internet safety tips were easily shared in a manner that children and tweens won't feel like they are getting a lecture. The Bible was also freely discussed with friends and family. There is definitely a need for more faith-based entertainment for the intended age group. Dot Conner: Webtective takes faith, fun, friends, family, and just enough fear to make a wholesome film that also entertains. 

I recommend taking your family to the theater this weekend to enjoy this good movie together. I know many of my favorite childhood memories was seeing a movie with my family! Learn more & buy tickets at DotConner.com

Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard.
Please submit your full name and email address by 9/24/2025.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Huff Media Productions and Pangea Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

LINKS:

Get Tickets 

DotConner.com

FB: @webtective 

IG: @webtective 

X: @webtective 

IMDb

 

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

GROW trailer

As Autumn approaches, our thoughts 
naturally turn to... pumpkins! A new film involving pumpkins is coming to theaters October 17 to help celebrate "Pumpkin Season." It's time to  GROW
 ! 

Synopsis: Dinah Little (Golda Rosheuvel), a no-nonsense farmer living in the "Pumpkin Capital of the World," reluctantly takes in her abandoned niece, Charlie (Priya-Rose Brookwell). However, the annual pumpkin-growing contest reveals that Charlie has a special knack that increases the competition with the rival growers, and also grows a bond with between aunt and niece. A seed grows from a hilarious competion into a new bond with this newly formed family of two. 

Fall plans just got bigger with the news that GROW is releasing in theaters starting October 17. Get Tickets: GROW Tickets!

Watch the trailer & Share to help #GrowTheFilm get bigger!


*This is a family movie, but not necessarily faith-based, and there are minor sexual innuendos.

LINKS

Get Tickets

Facebook @GrowtheFilm

Instagram @growthefilm

TikTok @growthefilm 

YouTube @GrowTheFilm

IMDb



Saturday, September 13, 2025

NKJV Alexander Maclaren Study Bible

Few preachers in the 19th century rivaled​ Alexander Maclaren. Called the “Prince of Expositors​,” Maclaren was considered one of the best preachers​ of his era, acclaimed for offering remarkable biblical​ insights in a poetic style.

The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible invites you to learn from his powerful insights as​ you explore the Scriptures. Study notes drawn from his more than 1,500 published​ sermons illuminate every chapter of the Bible. Passage outlines based on his sermons guide you in systematic study of key texts. Short notes encourage you to apply​ the Bible to your life and see Christ’s relevance to all Scripture.

Features include:  

• Book introductions exploring each book’s background and key themes with insights from Maclaren’s work
• 1,400 study notes that cover every chapter of the Bible
• 380 Christ Connection notes showing the relevance of Christ to all Scripture
• 380 Life Application notes to help you live out the Bible’s principles
• 209 Passage Outlines based on Maclaren’s sermon outlines
• 8 essays addressing major doctrines of Scripture, personal devotion to Christ,and how to properly apply the Bible to your life
• Comprehensive concordance and index of features
• Bottom of page study notes
• Center-column cross-references 

 

Watch this video of Philip Nation with Thomas Nelson Bibles. You can purchase a copy for yourself at Thomas Nelson Bibles or Amazon


MY REVIEW: The first thing I noticed, of course, was the outward appearance. I love the 2 tone black and gray cover and the textured cover added to my initial positive impression. 

The inside is what really matters, though, and I am also pleased with the layout and the additional features. The introductions to each chapter provide needed context. I also loved both the Christ Connection and the Life Application notes, as well as the Passage Outlines.. I also found the footnotes very helpful when I used this Bible with my Sunday School lesson. There's an excellent concordance and several useful maps. 

The only things that weren't as favorable apply to my personal preferences. The print is a wonderful size for MOST people. I had no problems reading it, but I would have preferred it just a little bit larger; my eyes are feeling the effects of growing older. 

Narrow margins don't leave much room for note-taking. If you don't write in your Bible, not a problem. However, I do like to make notes if a scripture holds a significant meaning to me. Since wider margins and larger font would add to the size of this Bible, it isn't always practical. As is, it's an excellent Bible and I highly recommend getting a copy for yourself.
*****************

Giveaway: 1 copy of the Alexander Maclaren Study Bible.

Please submit your full name email address, and mailing address (to protect your privacy: cindynavarro713@gmail.com) by 9/18/25.

Disclosure: Many thanks to HarperCollins Christian Publishing for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

BUYING LINKS:

AMAZON

THOMAS NELSON

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, on February 11, 1826, Alexander Maclaren was the pastor of Union Chapel in Manchester England from 1858–1903. Heralded as the “Prince of Expositors,” he is considered by many to be one of the best preachers of the nineteenth century, The popularity of Maclaren’s published sermons rivaled that of Charles Spurgeon, helping him develop global acclaim for remarkable biblical insights delivered in a poetic style. Maclaren’s works continue to be read and studied due to their timeless relevance, verbal beauty, and profound freshness.






Wednesday, September 3, 2025

Light of the World

LIGHT OF THE WORLD is a beautiful. 2D-animated story of Jesus as told through the eyes of his young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, this film powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today!

It’s AD 30 and everyone is expectantly awaiting the coming Messiah. While Jesus isn’t exactly what they imagined, there is something special about this man. Soon, John, James, Andrew, Peter, and their new friends begin to follow Jesus on an unexpected adventure.

The movie opens on September 5th, and it is one that your family is sure to enjoy. Part of the success comes with how well it does in theaters on opening weekend. If you have a group or 10 or more, you can get a discount on the tickets! BUY TICKETS NOW!

See the trailer:


My Review: This first-time film by the Salvation Poem Project about the life of Jesus Christ will truly be a wonderful Family Movie Event for your entire family. Going back to 1990's style of 2D-animation will bring a sense of nostalgia for parents, and capture the attention of children. Directed by John Schafer, who produced Superbook, and long-time Disney animator Tom Bancroft, the visuals are excellent. 

With The Greatest Story Ever Told as the subject, this is perfect for those who are teaching their kids about Christianity and our faith in Jesus as our Savior. The disciples are younger in this movie, and the youngest disciple John is portrayed as an older child or young teenager. I love that this is more likely to appeal to the kids in the family (and follows the beliefs of many that the disciples were in their teens and twenties). It's a very good conversation opener to explain more about Jesus. This would also make an excellent outing for a Children's Ministry. I enjoyed the film and hope to see more in the future from those involved. 

Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard. Please submit your full name and email address by 9/11/25.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Salvation Poem for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Watch this interview with Jean Thomason (Momentum Influencer Network) and Light of the World Producer Brennan McPherson


LINKS

LightOfTheWorld.com

Tickets

Instagram

LOTW Facebook

Salvation Poem Project Facebook 

X

Salvation Poem Project TikTok




Friday, August 29, 2025

A Week Away: The Series

A WEEK AWAY: THE SERIES  is a story that follows a defiant foster teen who is dragged to church camp. Determined to resist what he sees as the hollow promises of faith, Max (Antonio Cipriano) slowly feels the walls he built begin to crack and gives way to introspection. As he discovers he’s not alone in the struggle against grief, anger, and the ache of belonging, he learns that healing can’t be forced— it must be chosen.

This musical series follows a group of teens as they embark on a summer at Camp Aweegaway — a Christian camp filled with adventure, friendships, and unexpected self-discovery. It’s an expressive and resonant story about identity, trust, and the courage to face what’s within.

A Week Away: The Series is fun and engaging, safe for family viewing, and honors faith-based principles without being a ‘lesson in Christianity.’ Currently streaming on Angel, check out the trailer:  


MY REVIEW: A teen musical about a Christian camp? My first thought was "Campy" and the pun is 100% intended! 😎 I did have doubts at the beginning, but I quickly got hooked by the story and loved the music and the dance routines. This was filled with fast-paced routines that kept me entertained. The music, however, was my favorite and I loved how it wove through the story to add depth. It is geared more to teens, but it appeals to the entire family.  

The premise of the film is a week-long stay at a Christian church camp for teens, and the visitors include some nonbelievers and skeptics from foster homes. So, while the music, dance, and humor keeps you laughing, singing, and moving this is not just a cotton candy experience that is all fluff and no substance. There are struggles with doubts over faith, wondering if God can actually be real, and why didn't He answer me when I called out in the past. Some of the kids have experienced trauma and horror no one should go through, abandonment and neglect by parents who failed to love and protect them, and the fear of trusting anyone...especially a God you can't see. Is faith just wishful thinking? I admit I sobbed through some of the scenes. Yes, there was joy in this fictional series, but the acknowledgment of real pain brought this up to another level.

Director Alan Powell can be proud of this one. I certainly applaud the actors: Antonio Cipriano, Cozi Zuehlsdorff, Sacha Carlson, Ava Jean, Haven Greene, Luke Concepcion, Leigh-Allyn Baker, Jason Marsden, David Koechner, and Carlos PenaVega. And I can't ignore the amazing background actors; you will love their hilarious performance telling us about themselves. 

"A Week Away: The Series" just started streaming, so be sure to check out Episode 1 (of 7). Be prepared... it will get you laughing, singing, dancing, and it just might inspire you to show love to someone in need.
Angel.com/a-week-away-series

Also, consider joining the Angel Guild! Stream movies, get tickets to every theatrical release, and help deliver more inspiring stories to the world. Angel.com/guild/join 

Giveaway: $10 Amazon Giftcard
Please submit your full name and email address by 9/15/2025. 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Angel for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.


Thursday, August 28, 2025

The Texas Triangle - Benjamin Dane


"The Texas TriangleEverything You Need To Know About Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas!" is the most recent book in The Best Texas Series by Benjamin Dane. 


The Texas Triangle isn’t just a shape on the map—it’s the most dynamic, diverse, and opportunity-rich region in the entire Lone Star State. Covering Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas/Fort Worth, this urban superzone is where over 70% of Texans live, work, and thrive—and now, so can YOU!


*PROCEEDS BENEFIT TEXAS FLOOD VICTIMS. 



MY REVIEW: Is big city life your natural habitat? The 2nd book in Benjamin Dane's TEXAS Series is made for you! Focused on where the majority of Texans live and work, this area, called "The Texas Triangle," covers Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas/Fort Worth. Dane's "The Best Texas Bucket List" gave a wonderful overview of the entire state, but he now shares vital knowledge of the major cities. The best food, the best music, the general "vibe" of each city, and more are covered. This guide will help anyone making a decision about moving to or visiting each location. Even locals may discover new things.

My favorite part is the NEED TO KNOW facts and links Dane provides. Things you need to know when house or apartment hunting, enrolling a child in school, transportation, and all the basics are laid out to minimize the hassle of moving. Knowing what to expect for entertainment, festivals, and more are more great tips to have in advance. Whether you are there for a brief visit ot this is now home, no more wasting time searching for answers that are found easily in this book. You have more time to explore what is really 'deep in the heart of Texas.'

One difference in the hardback and the paperback is the pictures. The softcover version uses vibrantly colored photos. The hardcover, which I purchased, contains black and white photos only. It's a matter of personal preference, and I am happy with my choice. The beauty of Texas comes through either way. This book is a useful guide for locals and visitors, and especially for those considering a move to the vibrant life of a Texas city. You'll be glad you did!

LINKS:






Benjamin Dane, a proud Texas native, brings a dynamic background in design, illustration, art direction, and film. As an author he is driven to capture and share the spirit and beauty that defines Texas. Launching his creative career early, he founded a successful boutique design agency. His deep love for storytelling naturally led him into film, where he has produced and acted in numerous projects, including the acclaimed feature, "Beyond the Farthest Star." He is currently developing the sweeping new series, "STRUCK," taking on the central role of "Noah."
Benjamin lives in Texas with his wife. 

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Singing Through Fire - Lara Silverman, J.D.

Singing Through Fire, which chronicles Lara's eight-year journey through profound loss: a sudden, debilitating neurological illness that left her severely bedridden for four years, the collapse of her legal career, and, most recently, the death of her husband Matt—a brilliant engineering PhD, missionary, and youth pastor—after just one year of marriage.

 

"Yet in this Job-like journey, God met me with startling joy: unexpected marriage, music, and redemptive joy in the flames. The memoir is raw and honest, but also full of humor, theatrical flair, and 1940s vintage romance." - Lara Silverman


Book Trailer:




My Review: Finding joy in grief. 1 Peter 1: 6-7 says,"
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."

Lara Silverman's story of losing her dream job due to a devastating illness that baffled her doctors does not sound promising for finding joy, but it is. Her faith in God stands strong as well as her determination to not give up hope. This includes falling in love and marrying a man named Matt. Matthew John, 
a brilliant engineering PhD, missionary, youth pastor, and a cancer survivor (during his teens), who brings joy and hope, and a strong faith that encourages Lara. When cancer returns, Lara is a perfect supporter for him. Even knowing there will be unimaginable struggles and their time together many be very limited, they are perfect together. Love and laughter, trusting God, and meeting the needs of one another...physically, emotionally, & spiritually is amazing. 

Joy is also brought to the reader. Lara's sense of humor (with a perfect sarcastic twist), her love of music and theater, her ability to draw closer to God even when things get tougher than expected, her relationships with family and friends, and especially with Matt are an encouragement for the readers. 


I was reminded of 2 other verses while reading:
"The LORD Himself goes before you; He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.” - Deuteronomy 31:8


"Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” - Joshua 1:9


Lara's story of faith, unstoppable courage, a quest for answers and acceptance that "Wait" is an answer, unflinching hope, determination to find joy inspite of pain, and sharing moments of joy make this a compelling and encouraging read. Thank you Lara for sharing your and Matt's story. 


Lara & Matt Silverman
March 4, 2023


Buy "Singing Through Fire"


The Silverman Web Site

Friday, August 15, 2025

Light of the World tickets

lightoftheworld.com
 
COMING SOON...
It’s AD 30 and everyone is expectantly awaiting the coming Messiah. While Jesus isn’t exactly what they imagined, there is something special about this man. Soon, John, James, Andrew, Peter, and their new friends begin to follow Jesus on an unexpected adventure. This beautiful, 2D-animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his beloved young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today! LIGHT OF THE WORLD opens in theaters September 5.

Order your tickets NOW! Using this TICKETS LINK, you can get 2 TICKETS FOR $10! What a deal! 
REMEMBER: lightoftheworld.com/tickets

Want to know more? Check out this short trailer!


I first heard about this film last year and was immediately excited. 
LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever … and still changes lives today! The story of Jesus is brought to life in beautiful 2D animation. Read more on their website, plus see a longer trailer in the links below:


LINKS



Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Testament - Episodes 5 and 6

TESTAMENT: The Book of Acts explosively reimagined in an alternate-modern era. A resurrection sparks a movement that turns the world upside down, spreading hope amid chaos. As the followers risk everything to preach the good news, the Temple races to silence them before the oppressive Imperium regime retaliates. But public miracles, unburied secrets, and fractured loyalties force both sides to confront the true cost of their choices.

This powerful live-action series will challenge you, move you, and make you rethink what it means to truly follow Jesus. Set in a modern world, you'll connect with these stories and people like never before. The series is directed by Paul Syrstad.

Season One of Testament has 8 episodes:

  • 1. Something Old
  • 2. The Fisherman
  • 3. One Accord
  • 4. Fire Burns
  • 5. Rising Tides
  • 6. And Tomorrow
  • 7. I See
  • 8. Something New

A small group of believers turns the world upside down in this modern retelling of the Book of Acts. Angel does provide some content on their app at no charge, but to unlock excellent films and series, plus other perks, become a guild member. Sign up today for the Angel Guild: angel.com/collide



MY REVIEW: I will be reviewing Episodes 5 and 6 of Season 1 of TESTAMENT.

S1 Ep 5: Rising Tides
Saul pulls strings in the shadows, orchestrating the Apostles' arrest. Leaderless, Stephen rises to unite a fractured community, while Mary confronts the Temple Guard Captain over a rescued girl’s future. Saul’s plan may succeed, but at what cost?

S1 Ep 6: And Tomorrow Stephen’s charismatic leadership splits Salem’s people, but his devoted mother, Esther, wrestles with fear for his safety. Elsewhere, a broken Saul receives a shocking offer from the Temple, one that could restore his position in the Temple or become his undoing. As Peter mentors Stephen toward greater spiritual authority, the Temple’s uncharacteristic quiet hides brewing storms. When personal and divine callings collide, each must confront what they truly believe.

It's easier to give an overall view of these 2 episodes. Much of it surrounds the beginning of the Christian church through The Jesus Followers, aka The Way. The 12 apostles are actively telling others about Jesus, much to the anger of the faithful Jews who reject Jesus as the Messiah. Yet they are also gathering communities to provide both spiritual and physical nourishment. The selection of 7 leaders to help administer shows additional growth. One of the leaders is Stephen, a bold follower of Jesus who is becoming well known for telling others about the Messiah. We also see the growing anger of Saul, whose mission is to stop these people who he believes is violating Jewish and temple laws. Will his rage cost him more than he expects? It does cause a wedge between him and his teacher. Bottom line: I am getting completely caught up in this series. I glanced through Episode 1 to try to figure out the characters but wanted to get to the episodes I was specifically asked to review. I guessed my basic knowledge of ACTS would get me through, and this season is mostly Acts 2-7. However, I will be eagerly watching all 8 episodes starting tomorrow...and impatiently waiting for Season 2. I do recommend you sign up for Angel to watch TESTAMENT.

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card. Please submit your full name and email address by 8/14/25. Disclosure: Many thanks to Angel for providing a one-month Angel Guild membership for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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Sunday, July 27, 2025

The King of Kings

The animated film The King of Kings is now streaming on Angel.com and the Angel App and available to all Angel Guild members.

"The King of Kings" brings the life of Jesus Christ to the screen with breathtaking animation, a stirring musical score, and a powerful retelling of the Gospel story that has resonated deeply with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The film was produced by South Korean animation house MOFAC and distributed to global audiences through theaters and Angel’s innovative platform.

"The King of Kings" features a father telling his son the greatest story ever told, and what begins as a bedtime tale becomes a life-changing journey. Through vivid imagination, the boy walks alongside Jesus, witnessing His miracles, facing His trials, and understanding His ultimate sacrifice. The King of Kings invites us to rediscover the enduring power of hope, love, and redemption through the eyes of a child. Directed by Seong-Ho Jang and featuring an all-star voice cast, "The King of Kings" has captivated audiences worldwide.

Watch The King of Kings now on Angel.com or download the Angel App on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and other major platforms. For more information, please see angel.com/collide.


My Review: Inspired by a book written by Charles Dickens for his children, "The Life of our Lord," "The King of Kings" starts off with a frustrated Dickens and his King Arthur-obsessed son, Walter. Walter's imagination soars as he, his cat Willa, and Dickens are transported back to the birth of Jesus and continue through the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. The animation, by South Korean company MOFAC, is colorful and pleasing to the eye. It is sure to keep the attention of children and adults. Well-known voice actors, including Kenneth Branagh as Charles Dickens, Uma Thurman as Catherine Dickens, Pierce Brosnan as Pontius Pilate, Mark Hamill as King Herod, Roman Griffin Davis as Walter Dickens, Forest Whitaker as PeterBen Kingsley as High Priest Caiaphas, and Oscar Isaac as Jesus Christ, bring the level of storytelling up another notch.


The movie may not hold the attention of younger children but is suitable for kids 8 years old and up. The story of Jesus can be hard to watch and hard to understand, but "The King of Kings" brings it down to a level suitable for younger viewers without downplaying the events. This is excellent for parents to share with their kids or for a children's church or Sunday school class. It will definitely open the door to conversations about Jesus. Director Seong-Ho Jang is to be commended for creating such an impressive film. 

Angel Studios is quickly emerging as a values-driven, family-friendly streaming service that is shaping entertainment to amplify light to its audience. An added value for those seeking more faith- and family-friendly content is their Angel Guild. Members of the Guild can see previews of potential movies and shows and VOTE for the ones that they would like to see. Yes, YOU can make a difference in the entertainment being provided for your family. In the meantime, enjoy watching great films like "The King of Kings" with your family and friends, plus other bonuses with Premium Membership! 
Learn more at 
https://www.angel.com/collide

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card. Please submit your full name and email address by 7/31/25. USA ONLY.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Angel for providing a one-month Angel Guild membership for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.


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About Angel: Angel is a values-based distribution company for stories that amplify light to mainstream audiences. Through the Angel Guild, over 1,100,000 paying members from more than 170 different countries help decide what film and television projects the studio will market and distribute and support the filmmakers who create films and series that amplify light. Learn more at angel.com