Can a movie be...church?

On February 21, The Gayton Kirk hosted a screening of 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture. Apparently, social issue documentaries aren't gaining much traction these days, and this one has been both difficult to find and not getting as much attention as it deserves. (You can stream it at https://www.1946themovie.com/.)

While this was not an official stop on our grant year journey, it was an illuminating side trip. Our church was filled with a diverse array of people, including regular church attenders, a group from our local seminary, and lots of neighbors who heard about the screening through social media. There were beverages and popcorn. We collected money for a local LGBTQIA+ community organization. People seemed relaxed. Conversations before the movie seemed gentle and people mingled about and got settled in the sanctuary. During the 90 minute film we were exposed to personal stories, theological inquiry, historical context, and differing opinions. There was sound biblical teaching based on careful exegesis. There was emotional complexity to work through, and some folks were visibly moved. When it was over, many lingered and talked before heading out.

That sounds a lot like church to me.

As we rethink how and what worshipping experiences could be, let's remember to look outside of the box. Can a movie be a worshipful experience? Sometimes the answer is yes.