The Best Movies To Show A Church Youth Group
When looking for films appropriate for kids, you can certainly look to the MPAA's rating system for guidance. However, for a Church youth group, it's not so simple. In addition to wanting a movie free of inappropriate material, films with Christian themes are definitely a bonus. Ideally, movies for youth ministry should be wholesome and fun films everyone can enjoy. Below, you'll find some films for pre-teens and teenagers that are appropriate for a predominantly Christian audience.Â
There are plenty of movies for youth groups that tackle the Bible and faith fairly directly. The Chronicles of Narnia is famous for its many allusions to Christianity and The Prince of Egypt is a gripping animated film that tells stories from the Bible. However, youth groups do not have to be solely exposed to Christian movies. Some films explore the tenants of Christianity without being overtly religious. Films like Horton Hears a Who! and Finding Nemo encourage loyalty, determination, and kindness, for example. Browse this list to find the best movie to show your youth group!Â
- 1Will Poulter, Tilda Swinton, Liam Neeson
- Released: 2005 - Present
- Directed by: Andrew Adamson, Michael Apted
This beloved series transports viewers to a magical world where they learn valuable lessons about faith, courage, and sacrifice. It offers opportunities for open discussions about how we face our personal struggles through our beliefs and the support of others. The films emphasize the importance of unity and work together to triumph over evil, making it a great choice for fostering meaningful conversations among the youth.
- 2Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: John Lee Hancock
Based on the inspiring true story, this film follows the journey of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager adopted by a loving family who helps him unlock his true potential. The movie highlights the power of unconditional love, acceptance, and overcoming adversity, making it an excellent teaching tool for discussing themes such as empathy, compassion, and personal growth. It serves as a reminder that everyone has a chance for greatness and that by supporting one another, we can make lasting impacts in life.
- 3Joel Courtney, Jonathan Roumie, Kimberly Williams-Paisley
- Released: 2023
- Directed by: Jon Erwin, Brent McCorkle
This historical drama transports viewers to the early days of the Jesus Movement, a time when young people turned to faith amid social unrest and change. The movie explores the power of prayer, community, and the transformative nature of faith, providing a relevant context for today's youth. It showcases the importance of standing together in unity, even during the most challenging times.
- 4Val Kilmer, Ralph Fiennes, Michelle Pfeiffer
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Brenda Chapman, Steve Hickner, Simon Wells
This animated film retells the biblical story of Moses and his divine mission to free the Israelites from Egyptian enslavement. Rich in historical context and stunning visuals, this movie provides an engaging starting point to discuss themes of obedience, faith, and perseverance in the face of hardship. The powerful story emphasizes the importance of personal convictions and standing up for what is right, creating thought-provoking dialogue for church youth groups.
- 5AnnaSophia Robb, Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Sean McNamara
The remarkable true story of surfer Bethany Hamilton showcases her unwavering faith after losing her arm in a shark attack. As she battles physical and emotional challenges, this film encourages viewers to reflect on their resilience and the power of community in times of hardship. The film emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and trusting in divine guidance, providing a source of inspiration for young audiences.
- 6J. Michael Finley, Madeline Carroll, Dennis Quaid
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: Andrew Erwin, Jon Erwin
This poignant drama tells the story behind MercyMe's iconic hit song and the transformative journey of singer Bart Millard. The movie highlights the power of forgiveness, redemption, and love, offering a unique opportunity for introspection and personal growth. Groups can explore the impact of creative expression as a means to heal and connect with others, making it a perfect addition to a youth group film night.
