“We learned a lot about what works, what’s effective and what’s not, what film can do and what preaching can only do. At the beginning of 2017, we started talking about what’s next.” – Ethan Milner, visual arts director
They say a big ship turns slowly.
Rarely in the history of a 110-year institution do you have the opportunity to define the mission of the next generation. For much of the last year, our leadership has presented a new mission. Our aim, to be a people who live sent, extends to every aspect of our lives.
Our team began to evaluate how this mission informs not only the ministry we do and the programs we host, but we also asked how it impacts how we communicate and the stories we tell.
We’re excited to announce Out For Delivery, a short-film to be aired on local television this December. The movie premieres Friday, December 15 at 6:30 p.m. on WBRC FOX6 and WIAT CBS42. It will re-air on Saturday, December 16 at 7 p.m. on WTTO CW21 and Sunday, December 17 at 12:30 a.m. on WVTM NBC13.
“We’re such an entertainment-saturated culture,” said Dr. Danny Wood, senior pastor. “The idea of making a movie, especially during the Christmas season when everybody’s looking for something good to watch, just seemed like a great idea.”
Out For Delivery is more than a movie, however. It’s a tool for you to use to influence your world for Christ. Making a movie tied to an event or asking people to come and see doesn’t fit the mission.
“If we give people a tool and then teach them how to use it, it’s up to them to put it to work,” said Michael Adler, worship pastor. “It is a tool. It’s a conversational tool.”
There are different ways you can be involved, but we’re highlighting four specific ways: talk about it, share it, host a party and pray for it.
Talk About It
Conversations about what we’re watching on TV occur often. Next time, mention Out For Delivery, encourage your friends, family members, and colleagues to watch it.
Share It
Social media has added so many great things to our lives and, through the power of technology, given us another sphere of influence. Download our social media graphics and post about the movie to your Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.
Host a Party
We host watch parties for the Super Bowl, the Oscars, even shows like The Bachelorette. Consider hosting some friends or coworkers to watch the movie and form relationships. Those relationships could lead to opportunities to share the Gospel.
Pray For It
Starting today, pray God would use this movie in a way far beyond the reach of Shades. Pray God gives you open doors to talk about faith through the question, “Am I giving or taking?”
For more resources, social media content, and information, visit shades.org/outfordelivery