bible

the power of second chances

| Faith and Family Flicks News and Notes

Do you know someone who is down on their luck? Living with regrets? Wondering if it’s too late to make things right? Whether it’s a string of bad decisions, an unexpected crisis, or just life piling up. We all know people (or are people) who’ve felt like hope was out of reach. But what if the comeback is closer than we think?
I’ve heard powerful stories from my friends at the LA Dream Center, accounts of people who ended up homeless and broken, often because of just a few wrong turns. But time and time again, those same people found a way back.
How? Because someone stepped in. Someone believed in them, encouraged them, and introduced them to hope. It’s been said that just one person who believes in you can change the trajectory of your life and I believe that’s absolutely true.
The idea of second chances isn’t just motivational, it’s deeply biblical. Think about Moses. David. Paul. Peter. These weren’t men who lived spotless lives. They lied. They failed. They even ran from God. But their stories didn’t end in failure. Through God’s mercy, their lives were redeemed and repurposed.
God didn’t define them by their worst moments and He doesn’t define us that way either.
These powerful stories of second chances aren’t limited to real life or the pages of Scripture—they’re also found in cinema. Over the years, faith-based filmmakers have brought hope to life in inspiring ways. Here are just a few standout films that highlight this redemptive theme that God gives us more than just a fresh start, He gives us a new story.


Breakthrough (2019) Based on the true story of John Smith, a teenager who survives a near-fatal drowning. His miraculous recovery becomes a testament to faith and the power of prayer and second chances.
The VeggieTales movie Jonah (2002) playfully yet powerfully illustrates the theme of second chances, reminding viewers that God’s mercy is always available—even when we run the other way.
A New True Story of Redemption
This fall, another inspiring story hits the big screen nationwide called “The Senior”.
No, it’s not about a retirement home. It’s the true story of a former college football star who, at age 59, gets a second chance—at life, at redemption, and with the game he loves. It’s a powerful reminder that no one is ever too far gone or too old for a comeback.
Be a Messenger of Hope
As leaders in our churches and communities, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to be purveyors of hope. You never know who’s quietly waiting for someone to believe in them. Maybe you are the person God wants to use to ignite a second chance in someone’s life. So keep your eyes open. Speak life. Be bold with your encouragement. And never underestimate the power of believing in someone who feels forgotten. Because sometimes, all it takes is one voice to turn a broken past into a redeemed future.

Dave Almgren – Faithandfamilyfilms.info and Two Pastors Popcorn and a Movie Podcast.

Harnessing the Power of Animated Faith Films to Impact Your Community

| Faith and Family Flicks News and Notes

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.

Co-host of Two Pastor, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast

Have You Lost Your Vision?

| Faith and Family Flicks News and Notes

Not long ago, I watched the movie ‘Sight’ about a young girl who lost her vision. She had to navigate life with no ability to see her world. I somewhat cursorily thought about the challenges that one would face with being blind, having your world upended, and about what I would do if I lost my vision. How would I handle the loss? These were good questions, but there was no real danger of it happening to me.

Fast forward just a few months and I faced the thing I thought would never happen to me; I was suddenly losing the vision in my left eye and the reality was crazy and traumatic. I began to project about what would happen If I lost the vision in my right eye too, resulting in total blindness. How would I accomplish the simple undertakings I take for granted? The possibilities took a very real toll on me. The enemy started depositing thoughts about being worthless and having to depend on others for the rest of my life. How would I have an impact or still fulfill any purpose in my life? Life would be merely an existence. I’d need assistance for the rest of my life. There’d be no path forward to fulfill God’s intended purpose for my life.

. . .So I thought, and Satan hoped for.

I went to the ophthalmologist and eye surgery was quickly scheduled. Would it work? Would I still be blind in my left eye and maybe lose sight in my right eye as well? I was anxious and scared. I decided I needed to dive into the Word to be reminded to have faith, and that God is still in the miracle business. In the movie “Sight” God used a doctor to produce a miracle in the life of the young girl. Her sight was restored through the miracle of medicine. I was now believing in the same, by faith. My surgery was successful, and it was, indeed, a miracle, ‘I once was blind but now I see!’ Did I need to go through this trial to recapture my sense of purpose and re- prioritize what’s important in life? Perhaps. I will take this win – and allow the experience to remind me once more to look to the Lord for everything I need in this life.

For those of you reading this article today, maybe you still have the ability to see with your eyes, but have lost your vision to reach the world and to impact culture? The Bible says that “without vision the people perish.” I encourage you today to hold onto God’s promises. You have inestimable value. Even through your trials and tribulations, God has a purpose, a calling for you. Consider it pure joy when you face trials. God is at work in your life as he was in mine and in the girl in the movie, ‘Sight.’

Dave Almgren – The Movie Guy and Co Host of Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast.

Not Today The Movie – In Theaters April 12

Video | | Faith and Family Flicks News and Notes

This Friday is a BIG weekend for a few films that will deliver a poignant message that is sure to impact the psyche of our culture. The movie “Not Today” is most definitely one of those films and was birthed out of a desire to educate and challenge society to do something to stop slavery.  This is a giant issue to tackle and can be a challenge to really understand what a person can do to make a difference. Some may just ignore the issue and miss this movie altogether. So here’s a cliff note version of what your actions can do and simply start right here. First,  please understand that as you support the film and spread the word this helps create a successful opening weekend. As a result more people will be hearing about the movie and this issue and will explore their roll in helping to fight against slavery. Secondly, your ticket to see the movie is their ticket out of slavery. As a result of spending your money you are partnering with Friends Media and the Dalit Freedom Network who have committed to building 200 schools that will assist in rescuing thousands of children out of the human trafficking business and will give them a new life full of hope.

Not Today is a film that will grab your heart and leave you compelled to do something well beyond the credits. Please check out the movie, invite some friends, talk about the issue and how you can make a difference. Please note that Not Today is not necessarily a family movie because of the subject matter ( PG-13).

SYNOPSIS OF THE MOVIE:

Caden Welles has the world at his disposal. With the resources of his wealthy father, he’s living life as large as any 20-year-old could dream. But what happens when that dream becomes a nightmare halfway around the world?

Traveling with his friends to Hyderabad, India on a whim, Caden’s expectations of a never-ending party crash hard. But not as hard as his conscience when he refuses to help a starving man and his little girl. Haunted by the images of Kiran and Annika, Caden attempts to right his wrong—only to discover Kiran has been forced to sell his own daughter.

Caden’s eyes are now opened to a world few Americans know still exists: a thriving human-trafficking trade. Add the dehumanization of Kiran and hundreds of millions of other Dalits due to India’s caste system, and Caden could easily turn his back.

Yet spurred by a true purpose, an unlikely new friendship, and the prayers of his mother and girlfriend back home, Caden chooses to help in Kiran’s unlikely search to find his daughter.

Starring Cody Longo, Walid Amini, Shari Rigby, and John Schneider, NOT TODAY challenges moviegoers with a purpose that goes beyond its gripping story. The movie was produced by Friends Church Yorba Linda, a congregation committed to educating the Dalits and ending human trafficking in India.

NOT TODAY is a powerful reminder that change is possible if we’re willing to open our eyes … today.

“If not now, then when? If not me, then who?” Jewish leader, Hiller the Elder

Thanks for reading!

Peace

Dave Almgren

Does Club Jelly Telly Help Fill The Void?

| Faith and Family Flicks News and Notes

ImageSo what is Club Jelly Telly anyway? Is it the latest jelly of the month club for those families that can’t make their monthly run to Costco? I had to say it – because that may have been the first thought that popped into your mind.  No, It’s not from Harry and David’s, but from the one and only Phil Vischer (creator of Veggietales). In my last post I talked about the church stepping up and bringing wholesome family programming to the table. Well, Phil Vischer is one those pioneers and he is certainly is a covered wagon, head for the west type of pioneers that is willing to step out and take a risk and is attempting to fill the void.

Here is what Club Jelly Telly is all about.

Club JellyTelly is a unique online network for families, developed by VeggieTales and What’s In the Bible? creator, Phil Vischer. As a faith-based alternative to other chidren’s programming, JellyTelly provides families with a safe place to learn and play online. We have gathered the largest and most diverse collection of Christian children’s programming in the world for families to enjoy and engage.

Whether you want to spend some quality time with your family or just need a break in the day, Club JellyTelly is here to provide programming that you can believe in!

Click Here to Listen to Phil Vischer talk about Jelly Telly;

So to answer the question that is in the title of this blog. I would have to say Yes! I believe Club Jelly Telly does fill a void and provides parents with excellent family programing that parents can be proud of and whole heartily support! So here we go folks, here is an effort that we can support and get behind with our wallet. The site is up and running and Phil needs our support (Jelly Telly).   If you like what you see and you can afford $5.00 per month. Give it a try and see how your family likes the programming content.

Thanks Phil for being a pioneer and for filling the void!!

Dave Almgren – Family Films

Random Thought #422 The Bible

Image | | Faith and Family Flicks News and Notes

Random thought of the day:
You may have heard that one the most popular shows on tv right now is The History Channels new series called The Bible (68 Million viewers). It seems like there are many who are watching and learning about the most read book in history. Many today do not know much if anything about the Bible and the stories between the pages. So is the visibility of this series causing people to talk? Are there conversations around the water cooler at the office as well as the virtual water cooler taking place? I believe there are many conversation regarding issues of faith taking place and God is using this series to bring people to place where they are having healthy discussions about the Bible and its core message of hope and God’s love for the world.

Phil Vischer Brings us “What’s In The Bible?”

| Faith and Family Flicks News and Notes

Check out this all new introduction to What’s in the Bible? from the creator of Veggietales  Phil Vischer. Oh yes – Phil – he is  the voice of Bob The Tomato and all those other voices from your beloved Veggies. I think you will like this new series.  The first two DVDs hit the first week of March with Genesis and Exodus . . . So mark your calendars for the release date of March 11th.  In the meantime – grab some popcorn ( a small bag because this is just a tease video) and get ready for some fun and learning!

Check it out! Yes go ahead and watch the video – it’s some good stuff.

You can pre order the new DVDs – click right here!