The new animated film tells the story of Jesus through the eyes of the Apostle John, is set to debut at the US theatre on September 5th. Light presents the gospel in a family-friendly, hand-drawn 2D cartoon format.
Set around 30 A.D., the film depicts a crowd awaiting the Messiah, and follows John, James, Andrew, Peter, and others, who recognize something unique about Jesus and come to follow him through his ministry, the crosses, and the resurrection.
The project was created by The Salvation Poem Project, a non-profit creative studio focused on sharing the message of Jesus Christ around the world.
“There is a timeless artistry that comes only from hand-drawn, 2D animation, which seems appropriate to illuminate the world and tell the timeless story of Jesus,” the producer said in the release. “We believe that the light of the world connects with everyone everywhere.”
Christian Daily International reported in May that popular worship duo Shane & Shane had released a new single and music video titled “Light of the World Medley,” inspired by upcoming animated films.
The song was created in collaboration with the Salvation Poetry Project and is positioned as the musical and spiritual anchor of the film’s message of redness and hope. Shane & Shane medley blends with signature acoustically driven style and lyrical themes centered around the life of Jesus Christ, beginning with a poem of salvation originally written by Matt and Shelley McPherson and then transitions to a newly constructed worship track.
“It was wonderful to rethink the ‘salvation poem’ in this powerful new medley and partner with Shane and Shane,” said Matt McPherson, founder of the Savioural Poetry Project at the time. “Our hope is that this version will reach more people and guide them towards their personal relationship with Christ.”
“The light of the world brings the gospel back to life in a way that stirs both the mind and the imagination,” Shane & Shane said in a joint statement. “As a worship leader, it was a joy to create music that reflected that story. I hope that this will lead people to deeper encounters about who Jesus really is.”
Producer Brennan McPherson praised the duo’s contributions, saying, “Shane & Shane captured the film’s heart with such integrity. Their music feels like an extension of the film itself.
Shane & Shane, made up of Shane Bernard and Shane Everett, have written Bible-inspired worship music and major Bible worship events throughout the United States, known for its rich harmony and gospel-centric lyrics.
The Salvation Poetry Project, partnering with this initiative, is a global media ministry that generates multimedia resources to share Jesus’ message. Its content has been translated into almost 100 languages, reaching hundreds of millions of people worldwide.
More information is available at lightoftheworld.com.
