On September 4, the North American Division (NAD) premiered the short film When Hope Shows Up as part of the OneVoice27 initiative, a movement that encourages church members to use their digital influence to share how Jesus can make "All things new." The goal of the short film is to create awareness and inspire church members to join the initiative, urging members to pray like Jesus, serve like Jesus, share Jesus, and follow Jesus.

When Hope Shows Up explores grief after the death of a child and the role faith can play in healing and renewal. The film serves as a connection point with others, both in person and in digital spaces.

“The creators took a different approach intentionally with a creative short film,” said Julio Muñoz, a film producer and an NAD associate director. “We want viewers to experience the journey from despair to hope.” He shared that the director, Anthony Hackett of Sonset Friday Entertainment, is an Adventist filmmaker.

“We wanted to share a message with our members that even in the darkest moments, God is with us, and that we can be a light to others who are struggling,” said Rohann Wellington, film writer and producer, who serves as an assistant to the NAD president. “This film touches on the themes of forgiveness, grace, and hope.”

“We are not attempting to say that those experiencing loss and pain just need to have more faith,” asserted Wellington. “Many, many times, people need professional guidance through their grief, anxiety, and depression. We don’t want that to get lost here.”

He continued, “But there is a place for the message of hope and healing that can be found in Jesus to be shared with those around us, and we are called to bring that light to them, whether in person or in the digital sphere.”

The film description asks the audience: "Have you ever felt like your prayers were hitting the ceiling and the faith you built your life on was made of paper? In the moments of darkness and exhaustion, it is easy to feel completely alone and forgotten. This film can be a powerful reminder that grace does not need an appointment to change your life and that hope is just the beginning of your journey."

The film aims to remind audiences that God frequently moves through the people who refuse to let others stay in the dark. "You do not need to be polished or perfect to be used by God. In fact, He is making all things new through the most unlikely people, starting with you," said NAD representatives.

“We recognize that, even as broken people ourselves who may have dealt with this sort of unfathomable pain, someone in our world is exactly where we’ve been—and we can be there for them,” said G. Alexander Bryant, NAD president.

The original article was published on the North American Division news site.