“Courageous: Honor Begins at Home” is the newest feature film from Sherwood Pictures, the makers of “Facing the Giants” and “Fireproof.” The movie, which opens in theaters Sept. 30, depicts the tough side of fatherhood set against the backdrop of Christian brotherhood and biblical truths.
In a scene from “Courageous,” which opens Sept. 30, Adam and his son Dylan have trouble seeing eye to eye.“We believe God is calling men to rise up with strength and with leadership in their homes, with their families, and with their children,” said co-writer and producer Stephen Kendrick.
The movie unfolds with a band of four law enforcement officers who give their best on the job by day but are frustrated with their performance as fathers off the clock. When relationships with their children begin to drift and tragedy strikes, the men wrestle with the raw issues of fear, hope and faith. As the storyline leads to redemption, the goal is for movie-goers to leave the theater thinking about their own relationships, and how God can work in their lives.
” ‘Courageous’ is family-friendly and can be a tool for the church to use to reach lost people,” said Ron Barker, South Carolina Baptist Convention evangelism and prayer strategist. “Families have tough times, financial and otherwise, whether they are Christians or not. We can meet families where they are, and this movie is one of those opportunities.”
The National Fatherhood Initiative reports that nine out of 10 parents believe that there is a “father absence crisis” in this country. “The statistics on fatherless children are devastating,” said Jim McBride, executive pastor of Sherwood Church. “Because the family is the building block of society, one important place to rebuild families is through fathers who stay and lead and love.”
Sherwood Pictures began in 2002 as a ministry of Sherwood Church, located in Albany, Ga. Productions are home-grown, including the decision to use mainly locals and church members as actors.
The medium of film can be a powerful springboard for lively and meaningful discussions, including for men’s ministry groups, said Barker. He suggested that churches consider renting a showing of “Courageous” and then distribute tickets to target groups in the community.
“There are difficult family relationships and situations happening today, and families need help,” he said. “This is a movie that talks about relationships and forgiveness, and clearly shares the gospel.”
For more information about “Courageous,” visit www.courageousthemovie.com.