Soul on Fire: A Powerful Outreach Opportunity for Your Church This Fall
Bring hope to your community this fall through the power of story. Soul on Fire, releasing in theaters October 10, 2025, is more than a movie—it’s a unique outreach opportunity for your church to connect with people who might not come to church, but will say yes to a life-changing film experience.
What If the Next Great Outreach Event Was at the Movies?
Church leaders, we’re always looking for new, engaging ways to connect with our communities—especially those who might not walk through the doors of a church... at least not yet.
This October, you have a unique opportunity to leverage the power of storytelling and cinema to reach people in your city who need hope, healing, and purpose, but aren’t quite ready for Sunday morning sermons. Enter: Soul on Fire, the newest film from Sony Pictures' AFFIRM Films, releasing exclusively in theaters on October 10, 2025.
Let’s unpack why Soul on Fire might just be the ministry moment your church is looking for this fall.
A Faith-Filled Story Made for Sharing
Soul on Fire tells the gripping, true story of John O’Leary, who survived a devastating childhood burn accident and went on to become a best-selling author and motivational speaker. Based on O'Leary’s acclaimed memoir, On Fire, the film isn’t just about survival—it's a powerful celebration of community, purpose, and spiritual awakening.
Directed by Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer, Reagan) and starring Joel Courtney, John Corbett, and William H. Macy, the film is built to resonate with people of all backgrounds. It’s filled with emotional depth, strong themes of resilience and faith, and just enough cinematic edge to keep even the skeptics engaged.
This is more than a movie—it’s a movement.
Why This Movie Matters for Ministry
People might not say “yes” to a sermon. But they may agree to popcorn and a movie.
Here’s how Soul on Fire becomes an effective ministry tool for your church:
1. Invite-Ready for the Unchurched
Many people are hesitant to come to church but are open to seeing a movie. Use Soul on Fire as an invite catalyst. Plan a “Movie Night Invite Campaign” where you challenge your congregation to bring one friend, coworker, or neighbor.
2. Create Group Discussion Moments
After the movie, hold a follow-up event or small group using themes from the film. Topics like forgiveness, community, overcoming fear, and finding purpose are ripe for Gospel conversations.
3. Tie Into Your Fall Sermon Series
What if your October message series aligned with the themes of Soul on Fire? Create a mini-series around stories of resilience, faith, and God’s purpose in pain to deepen the impact of the film.
4. Community Partnerships
Partner with local theaters or other churches to host a special screening. Sony is actively inviting church leaders like you to preview the film before it hits theaters. Check for an early screening near you.
Ready to Spark Something in Your City?
Soul on Fire isn’t just a movie—it’s an invitation to ignite hearts and change lives. The story of John O’Leary has already touched thousands through his speaking and writing. Now, your church has the chance to amplify that message to people who need it most.
Here’s What You Can Do Next:
- Mark your calendar: October 10, 2025
- Visit SoulOnFireMovie.com to watch the trailer, find updates, and register for early screenings
- Plan an outreach campaign: Consider how your church can mobilize for an impactful movie-going experience
Final Thought
Church isn’t always the first step for everyone—but a movie can be. Use this opportunity to break down walls, spark spiritual conversations, and show your community what it means to live a life “on fire” with purpose.
October 10 is just around the corner. Get ready to turn your local theater into a mission field.
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Chris Dunagan is a marketing strategist focused on church tech and digital engagement. He helps churches grow through SEO, email campaigns, and tools like Tithe.ly and Breeze ChMS, with an emphasis on online giving, content strategy, and digital outreach.
What If the Next Great Outreach Event Was at the Movies?
Church leaders, we’re always looking for new, engaging ways to connect with our communities—especially those who might not walk through the doors of a church... at least not yet.
This October, you have a unique opportunity to leverage the power of storytelling and cinema to reach people in your city who need hope, healing, and purpose, but aren’t quite ready for Sunday morning sermons. Enter: Soul on Fire, the newest film from Sony Pictures' AFFIRM Films, releasing exclusively in theaters on October 10, 2025.
Let’s unpack why Soul on Fire might just be the ministry moment your church is looking for this fall.
A Faith-Filled Story Made for Sharing
Soul on Fire tells the gripping, true story of John O’Leary, who survived a devastating childhood burn accident and went on to become a best-selling author and motivational speaker. Based on O'Leary’s acclaimed memoir, On Fire, the film isn’t just about survival—it's a powerful celebration of community, purpose, and spiritual awakening.
Directed by Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer, Reagan) and starring Joel Courtney, John Corbett, and William H. Macy, the film is built to resonate with people of all backgrounds. It’s filled with emotional depth, strong themes of resilience and faith, and just enough cinematic edge to keep even the skeptics engaged.
This is more than a movie—it’s a movement.
Why This Movie Matters for Ministry
People might not say “yes” to a sermon. But they may agree to popcorn and a movie.
Here’s how Soul on Fire becomes an effective ministry tool for your church:
1. Invite-Ready for the Unchurched
Many people are hesitant to come to church but are open to seeing a movie. Use Soul on Fire as an invite catalyst. Plan a “Movie Night Invite Campaign” where you challenge your congregation to bring one friend, coworker, or neighbor.
2. Create Group Discussion Moments
After the movie, hold a follow-up event or small group using themes from the film. Topics like forgiveness, community, overcoming fear, and finding purpose are ripe for Gospel conversations.
3. Tie Into Your Fall Sermon Series
What if your October message series aligned with the themes of Soul on Fire? Create a mini-series around stories of resilience, faith, and God’s purpose in pain to deepen the impact of the film.
4. Community Partnerships
Partner with local theaters or other churches to host a special screening. Sony is actively inviting church leaders like you to preview the film before it hits theaters. Check for an early screening near you.
Ready to Spark Something in Your City?
Soul on Fire isn’t just a movie—it’s an invitation to ignite hearts and change lives. The story of John O’Leary has already touched thousands through his speaking and writing. Now, your church has the chance to amplify that message to people who need it most.
Here’s What You Can Do Next:
- Mark your calendar: October 10, 2025
- Visit SoulOnFireMovie.com to watch the trailer, find updates, and register for early screenings
- Plan an outreach campaign: Consider how your church can mobilize for an impactful movie-going experience
Final Thought
Church isn’t always the first step for everyone—but a movie can be. Use this opportunity to break down walls, spark spiritual conversations, and show your community what it means to live a life “on fire” with purpose.
October 10 is just around the corner. Get ready to turn your local theater into a mission field.
podcast transcript
Chris Dunagan is a marketing strategist focused on church tech and digital engagement. He helps churches grow through SEO, email campaigns, and tools like Tithe.ly and Breeze ChMS, with an emphasis on online giving, content strategy, and digital outreach.
What If the Next Great Outreach Event Was at the Movies?
Church leaders, we’re always looking for new, engaging ways to connect with our communities—especially those who might not walk through the doors of a church... at least not yet.
This October, you have a unique opportunity to leverage the power of storytelling and cinema to reach people in your city who need hope, healing, and purpose, but aren’t quite ready for Sunday morning sermons. Enter: Soul on Fire, the newest film from Sony Pictures' AFFIRM Films, releasing exclusively in theaters on October 10, 2025.
Let’s unpack why Soul on Fire might just be the ministry moment your church is looking for this fall.
A Faith-Filled Story Made for Sharing
Soul on Fire tells the gripping, true story of John O’Leary, who survived a devastating childhood burn accident and went on to become a best-selling author and motivational speaker. Based on O'Leary’s acclaimed memoir, On Fire, the film isn’t just about survival—it's a powerful celebration of community, purpose, and spiritual awakening.
Directed by Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer, Reagan) and starring Joel Courtney, John Corbett, and William H. Macy, the film is built to resonate with people of all backgrounds. It’s filled with emotional depth, strong themes of resilience and faith, and just enough cinematic edge to keep even the skeptics engaged.
This is more than a movie—it’s a movement.
Why This Movie Matters for Ministry
People might not say “yes” to a sermon. But they may agree to popcorn and a movie.
Here’s how Soul on Fire becomes an effective ministry tool for your church:
1. Invite-Ready for the Unchurched
Many people are hesitant to come to church but are open to seeing a movie. Use Soul on Fire as an invite catalyst. Plan a “Movie Night Invite Campaign” where you challenge your congregation to bring one friend, coworker, or neighbor.
2. Create Group Discussion Moments
After the movie, hold a follow-up event or small group using themes from the film. Topics like forgiveness, community, overcoming fear, and finding purpose are ripe for Gospel conversations.
3. Tie Into Your Fall Sermon Series
What if your October message series aligned with the themes of Soul on Fire? Create a mini-series around stories of resilience, faith, and God’s purpose in pain to deepen the impact of the film.
4. Community Partnerships
Partner with local theaters or other churches to host a special screening. Sony is actively inviting church leaders like you to preview the film before it hits theaters. Check for an early screening near you.
Ready to Spark Something in Your City?
Soul on Fire isn’t just a movie—it’s an invitation to ignite hearts and change lives. The story of John O’Leary has already touched thousands through his speaking and writing. Now, your church has the chance to amplify that message to people who need it most.
Here’s What You Can Do Next:
- Mark your calendar: October 10, 2025
- Visit SoulOnFireMovie.com to watch the trailer, find updates, and register for early screenings
- Plan an outreach campaign: Consider how your church can mobilize for an impactful movie-going experience
Final Thought
Church isn’t always the first step for everyone—but a movie can be. Use this opportunity to break down walls, spark spiritual conversations, and show your community what it means to live a life “on fire” with purpose.
October 10 is just around the corner. Get ready to turn your local theater into a mission field.
VIDEO transcript
What If the Next Great Outreach Event Was at the Movies?
Church leaders, we’re always looking for new, engaging ways to connect with our communities—especially those who might not walk through the doors of a church... at least not yet.
This October, you have a unique opportunity to leverage the power of storytelling and cinema to reach people in your city who need hope, healing, and purpose, but aren’t quite ready for Sunday morning sermons. Enter: Soul on Fire, the newest film from Sony Pictures' AFFIRM Films, releasing exclusively in theaters on October 10, 2025.
Let’s unpack why Soul on Fire might just be the ministry moment your church is looking for this fall.
A Faith-Filled Story Made for Sharing
Soul on Fire tells the gripping, true story of John O’Leary, who survived a devastating childhood burn accident and went on to become a best-selling author and motivational speaker. Based on O'Leary’s acclaimed memoir, On Fire, the film isn’t just about survival—it's a powerful celebration of community, purpose, and spiritual awakening.
Directed by Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer, Reagan) and starring Joel Courtney, John Corbett, and William H. Macy, the film is built to resonate with people of all backgrounds. It’s filled with emotional depth, strong themes of resilience and faith, and just enough cinematic edge to keep even the skeptics engaged.
This is more than a movie—it’s a movement.
Why This Movie Matters for Ministry
People might not say “yes” to a sermon. But they may agree to popcorn and a movie.
Here’s how Soul on Fire becomes an effective ministry tool for your church:
1. Invite-Ready for the Unchurched
Many people are hesitant to come to church but are open to seeing a movie. Use Soul on Fire as an invite catalyst. Plan a “Movie Night Invite Campaign” where you challenge your congregation to bring one friend, coworker, or neighbor.
2. Create Group Discussion Moments
After the movie, hold a follow-up event or small group using themes from the film. Topics like forgiveness, community, overcoming fear, and finding purpose are ripe for Gospel conversations.
3. Tie Into Your Fall Sermon Series
What if your October message series aligned with the themes of Soul on Fire? Create a mini-series around stories of resilience, faith, and God’s purpose in pain to deepen the impact of the film.
4. Community Partnerships
Partner with local theaters or other churches to host a special screening. Sony is actively inviting church leaders like you to preview the film before it hits theaters. Check for an early screening near you.
Ready to Spark Something in Your City?
Soul on Fire isn’t just a movie—it’s an invitation to ignite hearts and change lives. The story of John O’Leary has already touched thousands through his speaking and writing. Now, your church has the chance to amplify that message to people who need it most.
Here’s What You Can Do Next:
- Mark your calendar: October 10, 2025
- Visit SoulOnFireMovie.com to watch the trailer, find updates, and register for early screenings
- Plan an outreach campaign: Consider how your church can mobilize for an impactful movie-going experience
Final Thought
Church isn’t always the first step for everyone—but a movie can be. Use this opportunity to break down walls, spark spiritual conversations, and show your community what it means to live a life “on fire” with purpose.
October 10 is just around the corner. Get ready to turn your local theater into a mission field.
Sign Up for Product Updates
Chris Dunagan is a marketing strategist focused on church tech and digital engagement. He helps churches grow through SEO, email campaigns, and tools like Tithe.ly and Breeze ChMS, with an emphasis on online giving, content strategy, and digital outreach.
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