There’s nothing quite like gathering together to watch an animated film on the big screen. The excitement, the adventure, and the ability to be transported into another realm make movies a powerful experience that captivates children and those that are kids at heart. But beyond the entertainment, animated films have the potential to serve as an special tool for ministry, bringing biblical truths to life in an engaging and meaningful way.
As we step into 2025, there is an unprecedented wave of animated faith-based content hitting theaters and streaming platforms. This is a remarkable opportunity for family and children’s pastors to harness these films as a means of teaching, disciplining, and uniting their communities around biblical values.
An Exciting Line Up of Faith-based Animated Content.
Here are some a few releases to mark on your calendar:
• The Dead Sea Squirrels Series – An engaging series that introduces kids to biblical truths through the adventures of animated squirrels. Check out the new animated series from VeggieTales Co-Creator, Mike Nawrocki, streaming exclusively on Minno! Featuring performances and songs by Beth Moore, Ellie Holcomb, Mike Nawrocki, Steve Taylor, Newsboys, Matthew West, & more! Available Now on Mino streaming platform.
The King of Kings Movie – A father tells 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. In theaters starting April 11th, 2025.
The Chosen: Animated Adventure Series –Creator of The Chosen Dallas Jenkins’ new independent studio 5&2 Studios is currently working on a New Children’s Animated Series called The Chosen Adventures. The Chosen Adventures follows nine-year-old Abby in the Galilean city of Capernaum, circa 30 CE. Inquisitive young Abby is bursting at the seams with questions and feels she doesn’t have the kinds of answers she’s looking for. When she and her best friend, Joshua, meet Jesus will all that change? Release Fall 2025
The Light of the World Movie – 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! In theaters September 5th, 2025.
Young David Movie – David is one of the most inspiring characters in human history. Warrior, poet, shepherd and king, David’s life is one of incredible color and energy. It’s the ultimate underdog story. It’s about much more than a shepherd boy who took on a giant. It’s a story that can inspire a generation to live more courageously, and love more generously. It has the power to change us. David is a major animated feature film that will reach a global audience. Animation is arguably the most powerful medium through which to reach every generation, culture and language. The world’s most beloved animated films are re-watched again and again and David may become one of the classics for generations to come. Release Fall 2025
Why Animated Faith Films Matter
Animated content has a unique way of capturing attention and making complex truths understandable, especially for children. With their colorful visuals, compelling storytelling, and relatable characters, these films provide an accessible way to teach scriptural lessons. In addition, they serve as a catalyst for family discussions, helping parents reinforce biblical principles at home.
How to Leverage This Content for Ministry
1. Host Family Movie Nights – Create a fun and inviting atmosphere where families can watch these films together, followed by a discussion or devotional time.
2. Incorporate Film-Based Curriculum – Use these films as the foundation for your Sunday school or midweek lessons, helping kids connect the stories on screen with biblical truth.
3. Encourage Family Engagement – Provide parents with discussion guides and activities that allow them to continue the conversation at home.
4. Community Outreach – Use these films as a way to invite families from your neighborhood into the church, providing an easy entry point for those who may not regularly attend.
The Time is Now
In all my years working in faith-based films, I have never seen such a rich offering of animated content that aligns with biblical values. This is an giant opportunity to use high-quality, faith- driven entertainment to disciple young people and support the spiritual growth of families in your church.
I challenge you, as a children’s pastor, to plan ahead and make the most of these incredible resources. Organize events, integrate these films into your teaching, and encourage families to use them as tools for faith development. Let’s seize this moment to inspire the next generation with biblical truths through the power of animated storytelling!
David Almgren
Faith and Family Films New and Notes.
Faith and Family Films News and Notes 