City on a Hill Magazine: Issue One | 2017-18

CITY O N A H IL L

ISSUE ONE

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2017-18

AN ERWIN BROTHERS FILM

See exclusive behind the scenes photos of the film I Can Only Imagine

INTERVIEW WITH BART MILLARD OF

MERCYME G R AC E I S G R E AT E R A visual overview of City's newest project with Kyle Idleman

So, what's for me?

We're glad you asked. We've got you covered.

Small Group

Pastor

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CITY ON A HILL is an award-winning media company and ministry in Louisville, Kentucky. Trusted by over 20,000 churches for small group curriculum and video resources, City on a Hill is influencing today’s culture by combining relevant, faithful, and creative media with God’s Word.

Magazine 2017-18

President | TONY YOUNG VP & General Manager | TIM BYRON Artistic Director | RICHARD RAMSEY VP & Film Distribution | MARC HARPER Producer | KEVIN BENNETT Publishing | AMY SIMPSON Marketing | JC WILLIAMS Design | LANDON BREWER Social Media | LEIGHANNE TURNER Wholesale Coordinator | DENISE GRAHAM Sales | REBECCA BOWEN Customer Service | RACHEL POPHAM Controller | JOHN MCGRATH Director of Development | CYNDI MORENO

On the Cover A shot from the I Can Only Imagine set featuring J. Michael Finley as Bart Millard of MercyMe. Finley is making his film debut after starring in Broadway plays such as Les Miserables.

For more information about City on a Hill email info@coah.email, call (502) 245.2425, write to City on a Hill 1914 Stanley Gault Pkwy Louisville, KY 40223 or visit cityonahillstudio.com

For more information about the Erwin Brothers visit erwinbrothers.com For more information about I Can Only Imagine visit icanonlyimagine.com

FROM CITY ON A HILL'S PRESIDENT

GRACE. It’s the thread that unites our stories. As followers of Christ, we all have a story of undeserved grace, because Christ died to write it for us. This year at City on a Hill, in project after project, God has reminded us of a grace that is boundless and humbling; beautiful and unmerited.

In "I Can Only Imagine" Bart Millard of MercyMe reveals the painful past and unlikely events that, by God’s grace, led to the biggest Christian song of all time.

In "Grace is Greater" Kyle Idleman helps us experience a grace that is bigger than any of our sins, mistakes, or regrets.

In "Messy Grace" Caleb Kaltenbach reminds us that even the “messiest” people can receive God’s perfect grace.

Grace is vital. If your church has a growth problem, a discipleship problem, a volunteer problem, or a giving problem – there might really be a problem with your congregation’s understanding of grace.

Grace calls us out of comfort and into a completely committed relationship with Jesus. And that changes everything.

TONY YOUNG President of City on a Hill

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MOMENTS OF MERCY

IN THIS ISSUE

Bart Millard of MercyMe shares some of the true stories that inspired the movie, I Can Only Imagine.

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ON THE IMAGINE SET

Check out some behind the scenes moments from the set of I Can Only Imagine.

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FINDING THE RIGHT FIT

How do you cast a Christian movie? An interview with Jon Erwin and Richard Ramsey.

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Check out a short video from Bart Millard, lead singer of MercyMe, at insideimagine.com

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FATHERHOOD WITHOUT REGRET

I Can Only Imagine exposes a too familiar wound: broken fathers. Identify the six obstacles every dad faces.

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10 TIPS ON HOSPITALITY Keys to hosting a group at your home and finding your inner Martha Stewart, or not.

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I CAN ONLY IMAGINE RESOURCES Get a sneak peek at the full line of resources based around the movie.

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STORYTELLERS TO THE WORLD

An interview with Jon Erwin. Learn about his heart and vision to spread the gospel globally.

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OUR MOST DARING & INTIMIDATING STORY YET

Take a look into City on a Hill's vision and how our next film hopes to advance the gospel.

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STORIES OF GRACE

Read Butch’s True Story: God’s Grace is Greater Than My Addiction. Inspired by "Grace is Greater" by Kyle Idleman.

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GRACE IS GREATER

A visual overview of the Grace is Greater resources with Kyle Idleman.

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CAN A MOVIE IMPACT A COMMUNITY?

A local pastor shares his advice about s howing movies in church after 256 baptisms from a Woodlawn screening.

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KUBEISY Photography © 2017

BY KERI FOY

BART MILLARD, OF MERCYME, SHARES THE AMAZING TRUE STORIES THAT INSPIRED THE MOVIE, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE

The movie of your life is rolling. What actor would you choose to play you? How true to your life do you want the movie to be? For most of us, these hypothetical questions are more a fun game than anything to seriously ponder.

Not for Bart Millard, lead singer of MercyMe and the songwriter behind the wildly successful song, "I Can Only Imagine." When Millard was on set for the film inspired by his aforementioned song, he discussed variances between the movie and his life — as well as his hope for the film.

When Millard initially read the script, it naturally surfaced feelings from his past. "Reading about my dad being abusive growing up wasn't a joyride," says Millard. "And yeah, it may not have happened the exact way that they're writing it, but it certainly could have."

Millard was especially thoughtful about how his dad was portrayed in the movie. "I would tell [my manager, Scott] Brickell, the redemption part of the story has to be right," says Millard. "I know that he was a monster, but my greatest desire is [to show] what the gospel did to him was obvious."

Millard believes the movie accomplished this. At the end, the audience is rooting for his dad. "To honor him, I guess is the best way to describe it.

The role that he played in my life was more significant than he realized, and not just in a negative way," says Millard.

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MILLARD'S LAST CHECK

While the movie does address the timing of Millard receiving the final $600 from his dad, the true story may be even more Hollywood.

Before he passed away, Bart Millard's dad, known to his family and friends as "Bub," set up an account for Millard out of his pension or retirement. "He goes, 'you can either get it in a lump sum or $600 a month for 10 years. I already chose for you, because I know you'd buy a boat and be broke in 30 days,'" says Millard of the difficult conversation he had with his father in those last months. Bub continued that although 10 years doesn't sound like much, he'd always be there looking out for Millard.

For 10 years, Millard received that monthly check that allowed him to promote MercyMe without the distraction of holding down a steady job. "It was a big deal to me," says Millard. "When Shannon and I got married, it was a big part of [our income], because we were barely making it."

Then in January 2002, "I Can Only Imagine" was doing pretty well, and the couple had just brought home their first child, Sam. Millard was on hold, ready to interview with Jon Rivers of "20 The Countdown Magazine" regarding the song's success. "I was holding Sam in one arm," says Millard. " Shannon walks in and says, 'this is our last check.'"

When the DJ got on the phone, he immediately offered his congratulations. "'Imagine' had just hit No. 1," explains Millard. "And I started sobbing kind of uncontrollably, to the point where he's like, this dude's really excited about a No. 1 hit."

It was so much more though. Millard was looking at his last check from his dad and holding his newborn.

He couldn't stop thinking about what his dad said. "Even when you run out, I'll still be looking after you," says Millard.

"And at this point ... 'Imagine' and my dad go hand in hand.

They always have."

WRITING THE SONG

While "I Can Only Imagine" may have taken a lifetime to write, once it's written, the band immediately plays it, and it

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takes off from there in the movie version. What really happened was more of a slow roll to fame.

"We were making an independent record and needed one more song," says Millard. "I was literally just trying to find a blank page to write [one], and every page had [the words] I Can Only Imagine written on it." Millard had doodled that phrase over and over after his grandmother had spoken them to him at his father's funeral.

True to the film, Millard took those words and wrote the full song on the bus. It did take only five or 10 minutes to write but the song's journey really stalled for about year. "It was so special to me that I really thought that I was on an island, and no one else is gonna relate to [the song]. I don't know why I thought that," says Millard. "So we went about a year, and we never played it live.

It was just the 10th song on an album to make it an even number."

IMAGINE'S PUBLIC DEBUT

One night at a church camp where the band was headlining, a youth minister requested the "Imagine" song during the altar call. "We were like, 'We don't know it. We've never played it,'" says Millard. "So while he's preaching, we're behind a red curtain literally learning our own song, listening to it and learning it."

The curtains opened and MercyMe played "I Can Only Imagine" for the first time to a live audience. "When we finished, it was just dead silent. There was no clapping or anything, and we just thought we had wrecked it," says Millard. "Like we'll never play the song again, it was so awful."

When the lights came up and the band could finally see the audience, Millard was confused by how many students had come forward. "I was

KUBEISY Photography Š 2017

like, what is happening? I guess, sadly to say, we hadn't seen that a whole lot at that point of our careers," says Millard. "I feel like we've played it every night since."

THE PASTOR WHO RECOGNIZED BART'S TALENT

While the movie focuses on Millard's music teacher as an adult who discovered Millard's vocal skills, another adult also encouraged the teen. A pastor at his church witnessed him belt out songs in the sanctuary and couldn't keep quiet about Millard's talent.

"After school every day, I would go to the church I attended. My dad would be working, and I wouldn't want to go home. For hours and hours, I would sit at the piano, or I would sing because I loved how my voice would echo in the room," says Millard.

The church pastor told him whatever he did, lead worship or anything else; Millard needed to continue with music.

AMY GRANT'S DECISION TO RETURN THE SONG

Amy Grant did personally call Millard and did want to use the song as her single, but her record took longer than expected to finish. While the movie shows a dramatic portrayal of Grant handing the microphone to Millard in a gesture of giving back his song, Grant actually had a conversation with MercyMe's manager, Scott Brickell, releasing the song back to the band.

"For whatever reason, Amy was like, 'this is a career song for them,'" says Millard. "She thought we should take it back and run with it. So she literally gave it back."

THE TRACK THAT MILLARD HELD ON TO DURING DARK DAYS

Amy Grant's "Lead Me On" was the song that Millard claims changed his life. The movie uses the album Never Alone by Amy Grant. "I think the sentiment for that whole scene for me was that, Christian music — it's literally saved my life," says Millard.

K ERI FOY is a freelance writer & editor based out of Louisville, KY

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ON THE SET Co-Director Jon Erwin does what it takes to film a church camp scene with young Bart (Brody Rose) and his friend Kent (Samuel Sadovnick).

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1. Crewmember, Omega Davis (2nd Assistant Camera), starts the scene. Bart (played by real life pastor's kid, John Michael Finley) is about to be surprised on stage by Amy Grant. 2,000 dedicated MercyMe fans came to the final night of shooting! 2. Dennis Quaid prepares for an intense scene as Bart's Father "Arthur". 3. John Michael Finley get his beard groomed by Cloris Leachman, who plays Bart's grandma, in a candid moment before the camera rolls. 4. Trace Adkins co-stars as Bart's "get to the point" music manager Scott Brickell. Are these guys related by blood?

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FINDING

THE

RIGHT

FIT

HOW DO YOU CAST A CHRISTIAN MOVIE?

BY KERI FOY

here's a discussion within faith films — cast and hire only Christians versus opening the set to believers and non-believers alike.

For Jon Erwin of Erwin Brothers Entertainment, director of "I Can Only Imagine" and "Woodlawn," the answer is simple: It depends on the film's purpose.

Richard Ramsey, artistic director at City on a Hill and writer/director of "The Song," feels similar and adds that the actor's role should also influence whom to cast.

Neither can justify drawing a line in the sand when it comes to casting Christians and non-Christians for faith-based films.

"We're grouping faith films into one big bucket when they're very different," says Erwin. He explains there are films meant to edify the church, which wouldn't interest, possibly even confuse, non-Christians.

"We need those films. All branches [of Christian movies] are necessary," says Erwin, but also points out that they're different than what he and his brother, Andy Erwin, direct. "We're telling stories that draw people to the gospel. When you look at it from the perspective that — my purpose is to reach the lost with a story, your strategy changes."

Take, for example, the exchange between Paul and Barnabas. (Acts 15:3 - 16:10) The two were convicted in different ways, but still carried the message of God to the lost.

"WE'RE GROUPING FAITH FILMS INTO ONE BIG BUCKET WHEN THEY'RE VERY DIFFERENT." A SHARED VISION Some film sets hold all cast and crew to the standards of ministry described in 1 Timothy. "But I don't think actors need to be," says Ramsey. "In my mind, the writer and director are entrusted with communicating the worldview to the standards of ministry."

On the other hand, Ramsey does think there are considerations to make. He recalls a story he heard about an actor who had been arrested for public drunkenness. "If he was starring in a Christian film, and it was opening weekend, that would have a detrimental effect on the movie," says Ramsey. "If

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you're doing a movie that has a pro-life ethos, you don't want to cast an actress who's a Planned Parenthood supporter."

At the same time, Ramsey acknowledges that vocal Christians have and will continue to struggle with sin and even leave the faith.

"I could try to play it safe and cast all believers, but how do I know they're not going to have a public moral failure?" he says.

"For my part, if we only cast believers, we're limiting what God could do through us, for our crews and in our films," says Erwin. "We don't require that all are Christian; we would shortchange ourselves."

No matter the beliefs of the actor, he or she must embrace the purpose and message behind the film on the set of an Erwin Brothers movie. Erwin requires it. "I want to work with the very best," says Erwin. "All I request for them is to understand my vision. That the message of the film is dear to us and give it their all."

"IF WE CAN INFLUENCE PEOPLE AT THE TOP OF THEIR CRAFT

BY WORKING WITH THEM, IT'S A VERY POWERFUL THING." WHAT DO HORROR MOVIES AND FAITH FLICKS HAVE IN COMMON? While American culture is becoming more secular with an increasing hostility toward Christianity, the reputation of faith-based films is growing favorably. When horror films first made an appearance, they were known as cheesy with bad acting. "Now it's different," says Ramsey. "The more money that came in and the filmmakers learned, the better the genre."

Ramsey sees the same trend with Christian movies snagging more and more famous actors.

"Movie stars help you capture people's imaginations. Jon Voight, Sean Astin and Dennis Quaid are iconic," says Erwin.

Voight and Astin starred in "Woodlawn" and Quaid in "I Can Only Imagine."

"A named actor gives the film an immediate sense of legitimacy," says Ramsey, but notes that the more theologically narrow or socially controversial the story line, the more difficult to find A-, B-, C- or even D-list actors. "If you're making a movie that generically teaches there's a heaven and is very broad, actors who want to make a paycheck will do it. Unless they just are militantly secular, they won't flat out refuse to do a faith-based film."

"MOVIE STARS HELP YOU CAPTURE PEOPLE'S IMAGINATIONS." "Casting a celebrity that people recognize is our strategy," says Erwin. "We care about giving the church tools to influence their neighbors and friends. Thousands have come to Christ as a result of Woodlawn. The familiar face of Sean [Astin] is a powerful tool. Transforming Dennis Quaid on screen [in "I Can Only Imagine"] is a big difference compared to an unknown actor."

Both Ramsey and Erwin admire good acting. "Acting is a craft and it's an art form," says Ramsey. "If we can influence people at the top of their craft by working with them, it's a very powerful thing," says Erwin.

THE SET AS A MISSION FIELD Erwin candidly uses his film sets as evangelical opportunities, beyond actors. Because of his

Although the rise of smart phones and companies like Redbox has made a dent to the amount of people going to see movies in theaters, there were still 1.3 billion tickets sold to movie theaters just last year.

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previous experience working at ESPN, it's very important to him to work with non-Christians.

"From actors to grips and craftsman, we have this incredible opportunity to influence them," says Erwin. "For so many years at ESPN, Andy and I had our philosophy to use our jobs as leaders to hire people that might never come to church."

That philosophy hasn't changed since the brothers began Erwin Brothers Entertainment.

"On our sets, there's something clearly different about how actors and the crew are treated and how they feel," says Erwin. Ramsey agrees that the set of a Christian movie should radiate a different vibe. "If you refuse to work with people who aren't Christians, how are they going to

know what it's like to work with Christians," asks Ramsey.

It's no secret that entertainment is a tough business and it's commonplace for people to be mistreated. There lies the opportunity for filmmakers to live out the gospel.

"When we model the teachings of Jesus on how to treat people — in entertainment, you stick out even though we don't always do it right," says Erwin. "When actors can feel loved and empowered in an industry that tears people up, the difference is clearly seen." Erwin believes that deep friendships can form over time and he's watched cast members discover their faith.

K ERI FOY is a freelance writer & editor based out of Louisville, KY

Sean Astin proclaims his faith in Christ after Woodlawn film set ASTIN SPOKE TO LIBERTY University students about being a proud Christian.* Astin admitted to having judged Christians prior to becoming one himself, but stated how acting in Woodlawn helped him stop the judgment and start setting an example. He talked about how the Erwin Brothers' films bridge the gap between believers and non-believers. *Source: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=DzyCoZOgc2k

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Dennis Quaid has been in more than 100 movies including blockbusters like The Day After Tomorrow & Vantage Point. He's also an accomplised musician, writing music for three of his own movies.

BY RYAN SANDERS

Fatherhood Without Regret

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I was in college and living in Nashville, The Buckle of the Bible Belt, when “I Can Only Imagine” first hit radio waves. It played on repeat across Christian and country stations. The song was powerful. But I never knew the story behind the song. Now years later, watching this film as a dad, one significant thought captured me. What if we could father without regrets?

I don’t want to look back on my life as a father with regret. To live without regret, we must know the obstacles standing in our way, and remove them.

There’s an insightful scene in the movie when the music executive (Trace Adkins) talks to Bart and says, "What are you running from?” Bart confesses he’s been avoiding an obstacle all his life.

What are you running from as a dad? Maybe you don’t realize it yet. Sometimes you're engaged and intentional, and sometimes you're not. It’s vital you know the road blocks—so you can recognize what’s stopping you.

I challenge you to review these six obstacles and see if any one of them are blocking you from intentionally discipling your son or daughter.

In Bart’s dad, we see a man blocked by obstacles. From fighting with his wife, to telling Bart he’s “not good enough”. If any of these six obstacles below sound like you, you’ve hit what we at Manhood Journey call a “roadblock”. But understand God doesn't intend for you to live with these roadblocks.

You can remove the obstacles, with God’s help. You don’t have to live in ignorance, timidity, fear, passivity, guilt, procrastination or despair.

When God calls, He changes a man. By recognizing the roadblocks, we can then start overcoming them. In Christ, there is freedom from these obstacles.

4 WAYS TO REMOVE THE OBSTACLES: 1) Read the Bible. The surest way to know God’s will is to know His Word. The opposite is also true. If you’re disobedient and not in His Word, you won’t know God’s will.

2) Pray. Ask God to continually keep you in step with His spirit. Pray daily through the small stuff so you’ve cultivated a sensitivity to God in the big things.

3) Seek wise counsel. This means seeking out and listening to the people who are doing #1 and #2 on this list.

4) Live for God. Make decisions based on what’s best for the gospel—not yourself or others. Once you’ve done steps 1, 2, and 3—over time—you can and will be living for God. Want to know the surest way to live with regret? Not seeing the obstacles in front of you and not doing these four things to remove them.

Just as Bart watched God work when his dad went from being a monster to a man, we can do the same—through God. Dad, if you’re in God’s Word, praying continually and seeking wise counsel, I think you will love your wife as Christ loves the church.

You’ll intentionally engage and disciple your kids. You’ll look back on your life without regrets.

God can transform us, like Bart’s dad, into the men we want to become—into men our sons want to be like and our daughters want to marry.

I can only imagine, when that day comes, when we raise the next generation of godly men, that’ll be biblical fatherhood, without regret.

RYAN SANDERS is the director of marketing at Manhood Journey, the nonprofit ministry helping fathers raise the next generation of godly men. Ryan is married with three children and lives in Washington, DC.

TH E 6 OB STAC LE S E VE RY DAD FAC E S 1 ) T H E I G NO R ANC E O B STAC L E “I didn’t know it was my job.”

4 ) THE G UILT OBSTAC L E “Who am I to talk?”

2) T H E I NE RT I A O B STAC L E “I don’t know where to start.”

5 ) THE P R OC R ASTIN ATION OBSTAC L E “I’ve got plenty of time.”

3) T H E D E L E GAT I O N O B STAC LE “I’ll let someone else do it.”

6) THE D ESPAIR OBSTAC L E “My kid’s already too far gone.”

Want to learn more about these six obstacles and how to remove them?

Download our free eBook “Identify and Destroy” at: manhoodjourney.org/roadblocks

CI T YO N A H I LLST U D I O. CO M | 17

DIRECTINGthe steps of

YOUNGMEN

A Bible-based discipleship program that helps fathers guide their sons into becoming godly men.

Endorsed and used by Trail Life USA.

10 TIPS when hosting a small group in your home

1. HAVE YOUR HOUSE SET UP BEFORE YOUR GUESTS ARRIVE. Have the chairs set up, food out, etc. If you’re still getting ready after they show up, it can feel like they’re inconveniencing you.

2. TURN ON YOUR LIGHTS. A well-lit house is less intimidating than a dark house.

3. WEAR YOUR WWMSD WRISTBAND. What Would Martha Stewart Do? 4. ON SECOND THOUGHT, DON’T WEAR YOUR WWMSD WRISTBAND. 5. GREET EVERYONE WITH A WARM WELCOME. Let your guests know you’re

glad they’re there. You might assume they know that, but they probably don’t.

6. TRY TO HAVE A CONVERSATION WITH EACH GUEST. Ask a few open-ended questions, seeking to get to know the person and find something you have in common.

7. YOUR DEMON POSSESSED DOG? Lock him away before group starts. (Or maybe send him off to demon-possessed dog camp.)

8. HAVE SOME MUSIC ON WHEN PEOPLE ARRIVE. Music overcomes what could be awkward silence. The music should be low enough so people can easily have conversations over it. When everyone has arrived and

you’re ready to officially start your group, turn the music off.

9. HAVE SOME SNACKS & (ESPECIALLY) DRINKS. It doesn’t need to be fancy.

You’re not trying to impress people. You are trying to make them feel comfortable, and people tend to be more comfortable when they have something to munch on and a cup in their hands.

10. AFTER EVERYONE LEAVES, DON’T CLEAN UP. You just showed hospitality, as God’s asked you to. You did something good! Don’t ruin your night by cleaning up.

Leave the mess for tomorrow!

Find more tips like this at cityonahillstudio.com/the-blog

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A STUDY OF JESUS IN THE GOSPELS

AN EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK INTO THE

I CAN ONLY IMAGINE RESOURCES

And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

- Matthew 3:17 How many of us long to hear those words – that we are deeply loved and fully accepted? We hope to hear these words from our friends, our siblings, and especially our parents. But the need goes deeper. How many of us can picture our heavenly Father saying, “You are my child; I love you, and I’m pleased with you.”?

In the movie, I Can Only Imagine, Bart Millard struggles with deep wounds—coming from a broken home and abused by his father. He spent 18 years building walls around his heart. His father, Arthur, spent many more years stuck in guilt, regret, and anger that he unleashed on his family. Both were convinced nothing would ever change.

Have you convinced yourself that it’s too late? The relationship is too broken to be mended. You’ve been gone too long to return home. You’ve waited too long to make things right. You’re too damaged to be loved.

Jesus met a lot of people trapped beneath heavy burdens: poverty, religion, sickness, sin, and even death. But no situation was hopeless for Him. Jesus saw through their circumstances and fulfilled their deepest needs. It was never too late.

In the I Can Only Imagine Resources, Bart Millard shares his astonishing testimony first-hand. It’s a story of pain redeemed, brokenness restored, and God glorified.

Simultaneously, you’ll embark on a journey through the life and ministry of Jesus. In each of his encounters with people, the heart of God is revealed. You’ll discover what’s always been true: God still loves you. He still wants you. He will still redeem you.

You have an eternal hope and an eternal home.

And it’s better than you’ve ever imagined.

Explore the full collection of I Can Only Imagine Study Resources on the following pages.

Check out a short video from Bart Millard, lead singer of MercyMe, at insideimagine.com

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SMALL GROUP KIT The I Can Only Imagine Small Group Kit will combine a 4-Episode DVD Series, 28-Day Participant Journal, and thorough Leader’s Guide (descriptions of each item featured below) in a ready-to-use package that makes it easy to implement small groups in your church or ministry.

This 4-Week Study is created by City on a Hill, the award-winning publisher/studio behind the not a fan. and Woodlawn Bible Studies.

$ 3 9.9 9

SERIES This 4-episode Series will feature Bart Millard, the lead singer of MercyMe. Bart will share his true testimony and the lessons God has instilled through them, along with select scenes from the movie.

$14 .99

JOURNAL A beautifully designed, 28-day interactive study journal.

Effective as a standalone item or as a participant's guide to the Series. Embark on a journey through the life and ministry of Jesus. Each day will include scripture, reflective questions, activities, and prayer.

$ 14 . 99

LEADER'S GUIDE This guide equips the group leader with helpful tips on leading a group, discussion questions for each week, and suggested scripture to read in your group meeting. Designed to create a natural and flowing conversation that is deep and meaningful. Works in conjunction with the Series.

$ 14 . 99

PASTOR'S KIT A 4-week sermon series that compliments the I Can Only Imagine video Series. Includes art files, short video clips, and other helpful tools for launching a church-wide campaign.

$14 .99

DEVOTIONAL In this 30-day journey, you’ll walk through the gospels with Jesus, as he gives glimpses of Heaven on earth. How were people changed by encountering Jesus? How can he change your heart?

$ 16 . 99

HAVE QUESTIONS? We are available to assist you in building the right package for your church, with special discounts available for large orders. If you’d like help building a custom package, please contact Rebecca Bowen.

REBECCA BOWEN 502.245.2425 | Ext. 187 rebecca.bowen@coah.email

to the world Your community our wo r l d - needs cultural ly r el evant evang el ism

A conversation with

"It's not about pastors getting passionate about what I'm doing. It's that I'm passionate about what they're doing." Jon Erwin wants the movie, I Can Only Imagine, to come alongside the local church to help them reach their communities.

"I don't think a movie can do the work of the church, but

BY KERI FOY

[it] can aid the work of the church — amplify the work of the church," says Erwin. "How do you get people to stop in the busiest culture ever? How do you get people to listen to a story about forgiveness?" Erwin is convinced that film is one of the most powerful platforms to grab attention.

In 2016, audiences between the ages of 18 and 24 attended more movies than any other age group. More than two-thirds of the U.S./Canada population – or 246 million people – went to the cinema at least once in 2016.1 Maybe those stats aren't surprising, but what provokes "I Can Only Imagine" co-director, Jon Erwin, is the fact that those same people aren't filling pews on Sunday morning.

What better way to reach them with the gospel than to speak their language?

And that's exactly what Erwin has set out to do with films like I Can Only Imagine and Woodlawn. But his aspirations travel beyond North America alone.

In 2016, China built, on average, 27 new cinema screens a day.2 Other growing entertainment markets around the world include India, Brazil and Germany.3 According to sources for the Christian Broadcast Network, entertainment is the second largest U.S. export. Need more proof for just how powerful the influence of U.S. entertainment is? The U.S. media and entertainment market represents a third of the global industry.4 In Erwin's mind, why not use the entertainment industry's international clout to advance Christ's message of hope? "You

You can't stop American entertainment.

We're the storytellers to the world.

can't stop American entertainment," says Erwin. "We're the storytellers to the world."

Saudi Arabia, largely Muslim, paid the Brothers to translate and play the movie Woodlawn due to its popularity stateside.

Remarkably, Erwin heard of a Muslim man in Saudi Arabia who professed his faith in Christ after watching Woodlawn.

"If you can get to their hearts, 80 percent will want to change the way they think and believe to match the way they feel," says Erwin. "Stories change people and make them want to confront their belief systems." Film is proving the most powerful, global way to help tell those stories. "The craft I'm trying to master isn't filmmaking; the higher art is storytelling," says Erwin.

FILM: THE MOST POWERFUL, GLOBAL WAY TO TELL GOSPEL-DRIVEN STORIES. The song, "I Can Only Imagine," became the inspiration that's brought hope to millions of people. Moving to the big screen, the song morphs into another art form as Bart Millard's story of abuse, redemption and forgiveness, can inspire audiences in a new, more concrete way. The lead singer of MercyMe and songwriter of the billboard-topping hit, Bart sums up the success of the song with one word, “hope” and Erwin wants that feeling replicated in film.

"With this movie, we want people to feel hope. You can't outscrew-up God," says Erwin. Like Bart's father, played by Dennis Quaid in the movie, God can redeem and transform any life and broken relationship. Bart has said that he watched the gospel

1 Theatrical Market Statistics 2016. Motion Picture Association of America. http://www.mpaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/MPAA-Theatrical-Market-Statistics-2016_Final-1.pdf 2 Graham, Luke. "There will soon be more movie theatres in China than in the U.S." CNBC.com. Nov. 11, 2016. http://www.cnbc.com/2016/11/11/movie-theaters-china-market-us-culture-cinema-hollywood.html 3 2016 Top Markets Report: Media and Entertainment. October 2016. http://trade.gov/topmarkets/pdf/Media_and_Entertainment_Top_Markets_Report.pdf 4 Media Entertainment Spotlight. Select USA. https://www.selectusa.gov/media-entertainment-industry-united-states

CI T YO N A H I LLST U D I O. CO M | 25

transform his dad from a monster into a man he wanted to be like.

For this life-giving story of hope to take off globally, American churches have to rally around the film. "The movie has to get over a certain threshold of success in the U.S. before it can go global," says Erwin. "Think bigger than how we've used Christian films this far. Think of them as a tool of engagement." While a movie is the track of the 21st century, faith-based films still rely on churches, youth pastors, moms and dads to catch the vision of getting this good news to people in their lives.

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Stories change people and make them want to confront their belief systems.

K ERI FOY is a freelance writer & editor based out of Louisville, KY

USING CHRISTIAN FILMS HAS WORKED WELL for churches like Cypress Church in Columbus, Ohio. The church showed Woodlawn and baptized 256 people as a result.

(Read more about the success at Cypress on pg.38.) In Texas, a church showed the same film and had 800 people step forward for Jesus. These are just two examples of many where churches are using movies to connect and engage in their cities.

If you desire that type of impact for your community, Erwin has a couple of practical applications for churches. "Buy a theater. Host a screening. Own a show time at a local cinema," he says. Then, open it up to the public by encouraging your congregation and youth groups to invite their friends.

"It's a bridge to talk to them about the gospel," says Erwin. According to "The Inviting Church" by Win Arn, 86 percent of visitors to church come because friends or relatives invited them. "Lost people don't just show up and walk forward," says Erwin. "Christians have to do their job."

Beyond watching the movie, let your members know that simply sharing their personal stories about how God has worked in their lives with friends, families and co-workers is deeply impactful. "A lot of people feel like they can't defend their faith, and they stay as a spectator," says Erwin. "The proof of Christianity is in the lives transformed."

• 256 PEOPLE IN COLUMBUS, OHIO WERE BAPTIZED AFTER VIEWING WOODLAWN. • 800 PEOPLE IN DALLAS, TEXAS PROFESSED THEIR BELIEF IN JESUS AFTER WATCHING WOODLAWN.

CI T YO N A H I LLST U D I O. CO M | 27

This concept art depicts Richard Wurmbrand renouncing communism and proclaiming the gospel to communist politicians.

This moment is pivotal in the Wurmbrand's ministry and makes them public enemy #1 to the communist government.

OUR MOST DARINGAND DARING INTIMIDATING INTIMIDATING STORY YET BY RICHARD RAMSEY

W

e've all heard it said that "history repeats itself."

When we look at today's culture, we see polarizing trends as people debate about the latest political headline. You can't help but wonder if this is the most divisive time in history, if there is any hope for peace and reconciliation.

It’s easy in times like this for devoted Christians to react with fear and anger. But our call is to be like Christ, even in trials. And sometimes, other stories of believers living out their faith in similar or even much more trying times is not only encouraging, but brings context to our place and time and reminds us that this is not our eternal home.

Telling these stories is something we want to be known for at City on a Hill. While the world often categorizes Christians on "the wrong side" of history, we want to remind those following Christ to remain

steadfast in the Lord. We want to provide those seeking Christ with the answers they are looking for. We want to show those questioning Christ the tangible evidence of His grace all around us.

Perhaps the best embodiment of this vision is a project with the working title, In God's Underground.

Lord willing, this will be City on a Hill’s next film.

In post-war Romania, a pastor and his wife were imprisoned for their faith in Christ and their refusal to compromise with their country’s new communist regime. Although communists initially made outward promises of religious freedom, their private intent was to gradually erode and abolish religion. To that end, they recruited many Christian leaders and clergy to be communist allies and propagandists.

When Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand publicly defied the communists, he was snatched off the street

C I T YO N A H I LLST U D I O. CO M | 29

This is concept art for In God's Underground. This piece depicts Sabina Wurmbrand working at a labor camp.

To see more concept art of our upcoming movie follow us at facebook.com/followcityonahill

by the secret police. Sabina’s arrest occurred shortly thereafter, leaving behind the Wurmbrand’s only child, Mihai.

Though subjected to brutal Soviet-style interrogation, both were unwilling to renounce their faith or denounce their fellow Christians. Sabina was shipped off to Romania’s most notorious work camp, and Richard was dragged into a cramped, underground solitary cell, where he spent the next three years. Despite these hardships, their faith in God and love for each other not only survived but also miraculously thrived.

After four years in prison, Sabina was released and immediately resumed work expanding Romania’s underground church. Richard was secretly shuttled from prison to prison where his humor and message of faith, hope, and love penetrated even the hardest of hearts, including that of his zealous interrogator.

Eventually, their amnesty was secured by the tireless efforts of Scandinavian Christians. Richard, Sabina, and Mihai emigrated to the West, where they publicly shared their story and confronted powerful but naïve communist sympathizers.

Their inspiring testimony of triumphant faith awoke the conscience of the world to the suffering of Christians behind the Iron Curtain.

Romania’s communist government collapsed nearly thirty years ago, but the Wurmbrand’s work continues to this very day.

As founders of The Voice of the Martyrs, the Wurmbrands’ passion and life work was serving persecuted Christians. It is our sincere hope that telling their story will shed light on the hardline persecution of Christians across the globe and inspire Christians in free countries to aid them.

Their story is also of cultural relevance to Western Christians. While we enjoy an unprecedented religious freedom and face

This propaganda poster gives a glimpse into communism's war on religion. The translation of this poster is, "Religion is Poison".

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DESPITE THESE HARDSHIPS,THEIR FAITH IN GOD AND LOVE FOR EACH OTHER NOT ONLY SURVIVEDBUTALSO MIRACULOUSLY THRIVED.

nowhere near the level of adversity the Wurmbrands faced, we are continually bombarded with various pressures to compromise with the spirit of the age –and often in the name of equality, progress, and being on “the right side of history.”

We believe now is the time to tell a story about how there was recently a time and place where it seemed that evil was unstoppable and it would win, but it didn’t win. And, we believe now is a time to tell a story that reminds people that “the light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not overcome it.”

RICH ARD RAMSEY is the artistic director at City on a Hill and was the writter/director of The Song. He is currently developing In God's Underground.

C I T YO N A H I LLST U D I O. CO M | 31

BY CARLA WILLIAMS

ADDICTION. Everyone who hears this word has his or her own set of associations, memories, assumptions, and philosophies. But for those caught in its deadly grip, it can undoubtedly seem like there’s no room for grace.

And then there’s Butch. He’s gregarious, charming, quick-witted. He seems laid back and genuine. He laughs at his own jokes, which he tells frequently. There was no reason to suspect that the good-natured man sitting in front of me had navigated the darkest of trenches. But Butch is certain that grace is the only reason he’s still alive.

"I come from a long line of alcohol abusers in my family.

I don't say that as an excuse, I don't say that as a reason why I inherited the disease. Nobody ever forced or put anything in my system that I didn't put in myself. That just set the table."

Butch’s story begins like that of so many other addicts – with a determination to be different than those who came before him. But, like so many, his course was set in motion

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when he was still very young.

"At age 15, I took my first drink. And by 18, did my first drug, and it accelerated from there for 17 years until age 35. During that period of time, my father committed suicide in an alcohol state, and I swore that would never happen to me. When my mother called the night they found my dad, I coped with it by calling my fraternity brother and drinking a bottle of whiskey. So it was my natural state by then."

It might have been Butch’s natural state, but, at least at first, he seemed charming to those on the outside. You might not have guessed there was even a problem.

"What people got from Butch in those days was a role. An actor on a stage, and I got good at it."

He put on a good show for the world. He was friendly and likable and seemed to have

ONE NIGHT, HE FOUND HIMSELF IN HIS FATHER’S SUICIDAL SHOES – EXACTLY WHERE HE SWORE HE’D NEVER BE.

life together. But it didn’t take much depth to discover the excruciating consequences of his addiction and selfishness.

"I got divorced, and during that time, I bottomed out. I was a horrible husband. A liar and a cheat and a verbal abuser. I was so full of self that it was just a frenetic search for instant gratification with no regard for the consequences."

His relationships were suffering. He was drinking more and more. And things were rapidly spinning out of control for him. Several times during the course of those years, Butch recognized that maybe he had a problem.

At this point, Butch’s faith situation was dim.

"I grew up Presbyterian, I had all of the lapel pins for Sunday school records 17 years in a row. In high school, I gave sermons and read Bible verses in front of church. Took up the offering, went to Sunday school. I never felt like that was forced, it was just what we did. My grandparents went to church every Sunday. As a result I grew up knowing all the stories, or most of them. And I knew about God, but I never had a personal relationship."

With a failed marriage, strained relation-

ships, and no faith, Butch struggled to regain control over his tumultuous life. Counselors had suggested to him that if he could just change his thoughts, his actions would follow. He spent a lot of effort trying to make himself feel less crazy – in hopes that somehow if he felt normal, he wouldn’t need his addictions.

Of course, it wasn’t working. He just kept spiraling – and losing more and more in the process. One night, he found himself in his father’s suicidal shoes – exactly where he swore he’d never be.

"I was in a dark basement all by myself, high on drugs and alcohol, and thinking about doing the same thing. It didn't happen. I know in retrospect that was God saving my life. I didn't know it at that time. I called my younger brother at five o'clock in the morning. We talked, and I went and sought out help and here I am. Come January, 30 years sober."

That moment changed the course of Butch’s life. That night that could have ended in a devastating loss – just like his father’s death – instead became the night that the long line of abuse ended. He claimed a different path.

He didn’t even know yet that it was grace that had set him free. But he was about to understand.The seeds that were planted when he was a child faithfully attending church began to make sense as he began a recovery program.

"My recovery program that I participated in brought back my God consciousness, then the church I started attending brought back my love of Jesus Christ, one day at a time since then.

"I'm one of those that deserves justice, and I was given mercy."

C I T YO N A H I LLST U D I O. CO M | 33

ARE YOU A FOLLOWER OF JESUS...

OR ARE YOU JUST A FAN?

RESOURCES FROM PASTOR AND BESTSELLING AUTHOR, KYLE IDLEMAN Jesus was never that interested in fans. He wants completely committed followers. Kyle Idleman helps us stop relying on ourselves and finally lay it all down at the cross. Check out Kyle's bestselling studies, not a fan. and the end of me at cityonahillstudio.com

Butch, pictured here with his wife Paula and three adult children, Joey, Mandi, and Cassie.

Butch’s sobriety wasn’t his only gift. Six months after he got clean, he met his current wife. She and their three children have never seen Butch take a drink.

In the spirit of one truly rescued and redeemed through God’s grace, Butch ended our discussion with a humble bit of advice for those ensnared in addiction.

"First step, get on your knees and say, "God, help me." That's it. Just make it that simple. Nothing more."

Butch has lived two lives. There was Butch before sobriety and Butch after. Each is its own robust story, but neither is the full picture of who he is without the other half. His life could have ended one lonely night in a dark basement. It could have been a sad story about how a son became his father in life and in death. But God’s grace carried him into another story.

His current life – his sober life – is only fully appreciated because of who he used to be. Because he knows what it’s like to walk in the shadows, he can bask in the light. Because he knows the evil thoughts and actions of despair, he can celebrate the glory and

hope of life-awakening grace. The two seasons are intrinsically linked. He isn’t Butch without both.

And now, as he enjoys his semi-retirement, prays for his children, and walks with his wife, he can look back and know without a doubt that God has been enough. "God's grace is greater than my addiction."

CARL A WIL LIAMS Carla WIlliams is the writer for Team Expansion, a global missions organization.

Find the Stories of Grace podcast at Soundcloud, iTunes, and City on a Hill.

Listen or Read at CITY ON A HILL

C I T YO N A H I LLST U D I O. CO M | 35

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CAN A MOVIE IMPACT A COMMUNITY? ADVICE FROM A PASTOR WHO HAS USED FILM TO REACH THE LOST

astor Ken Murphy had one of the most exciting weekends a pastor can have after his church viewed the Erwin Brothers' movie, Woodlawn.

That weekend, 256 individuals made the decision to get baptized.

Speaking with Murphy, pastor at Cypress Church in Columbus, Ohio, about his involvement with the film and the experience of his congregation, it's clear he believes this film to be a powerful representation of how Christ can change lives. However, he also notes that simply showing a film, no matter how powerful, will not lead to decisions such as salvation or baptism.

“Celebrating the birth of new people in the family is always a wonderful thing,” Murphy explains. “Just don’t think you can show people

BY MEGAN KIRBY

the movie and then expect them to show up and get baptized. It’s the prayer and leadership before and in the midst of worship that leads to those decisions.”

Murphy is all about laying the groundwork.

It can often be true that after salvation or baptism occur the church drops the ball in leading the new Christian toward their Christ-given purpose. Not at Cypress Church.

DON'T FORGET TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR BABIES At Cypress Church there is a plan in place for “newborn baby Christians” and Murphy would encourage other churches to have a plan as well. After baptism, there is a class called "Explore Your Faith" where two fundamental questions are addressed: 1. What should I do?

2. What and how do I become?

For Murphy and Cypress Church it’s about helping new Christians plug-in with a congregation where they can make an impact. When it comes to making a difference, it’s not just about making a difference in themselves, it’s about making a difference in the community and the world.

Cypress Church has an external focus on service and missions. Murphy notes that some churches have become too focused on personal growth through Sunday school and other internal programs without remembering that service is key to producing and receiving the fruit of the spirit.

REACH THE LOST BY HELPING THE COMMUNITY “Serving today is more important than it’s ever been,” Murphy explains, “[Non-Christians] don’t care what you have to say but if you serve them, in this post-Christian world, then they ask why would you do that.” Service and a focus on the lost in the community open the door for a discussion about Christ missed by so many churches and Christians. These interactions are not just an opportunity to serve and speak in the community, but also opportunities to mentor new Christians and let them see the power in the body of Christ.

Murphy points to small groups as a great starting point for any church that is serving new Christians and doing outreach with the lost. This type of ongoing, connection-based ministry is the groundwork

that Murphy encourages churches to build upon prior to viewing Woodlawn or any other faith-based film.

He refers to the “DNA” of Cypress Church as an attitude of true concern for the lost and for helping grow new Christians.

With this focus on others, Murphy cautions against, “…becoming an event-oriented ministry rather than an ongoing ministry with special events,” he continues that it is important, “…to be careful not to create mountaintop experiences so we can be faithful to let God do what he needs to do in His time.”

Murphy has personal experience with this because after the

"Serving today is more important than it's ever been." weekend of 256 baptisms, the following weekend, baptisms dropped to 124 and his staff was a little let down. He offered counsel that this was not a disappointment because anytime even one person comes to Christ, it is a victory for a very intentional God.

WE AREN'T SUPPOSED TO LIVE ON TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN ALL THE TIME “While that was an incredible experience,” Murphy says, "we don’t want to live there, because then we might miss out on what God wants to do this weekend. So, we try to use that as a catalyst

C I T YO N A H I LLST U D I O. CO M | 39

to propel us over the next hill.”

Instead of living in that one mountaintop moment, Murphy looks at that big baptism weekend as a snapshot of the church and everything they say they believe and stand for. He views it as a marker for the health of the church.

If your church is laying the groundwork for new Christians and truly has a heart for the lost, Murphy believes film to be an excellent tool for ministry. Since most people attend movies anyway, it’s easy for congregants to attend and invite their friends. It’s a low-pressure environment where everyone knows what to expect — allowing people to let their guard down long enough to be receptive to the gospel. When asked if Murphy would recommend Woodlawn or other Erwin Brothers' projects for church study, the answer is clear. “Absolutely. The one thing I like about what Andy and Jon do is that they present captivating stories of human interest and moral dilemma and weave a redemptive Christian story into it," says Murphy. "Makes it easy to use as a springboard for conversation.”

WARNING: YOU AND YOUR CONGREGATION SHOULD TAKE A HARD LOOK AT YOUR HEART FOR THE LOST Murphy has high hopes for I Can Only Imagine as well. “I personally think I Can Only Imagine is going to blow away Woodlawn. I expect [the movie] to be like a tsunami and have the biggest impact of anything they have done.” He credits this anticipated success to the universality of the film, which portrays family relationships.

“Woodlawn,” he notes, “is in the context of football while I Can Only

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Imagine is about a parent-child relationship so it will appeal to more people right out of the gate.”

Even with that high praise, Murphy’s disclaimer stands for those who are interested in using any film for study.

“I would go back to if the church and the pastor do not have a heart for the lost, simply watching a film will not make anything happen,” says Murphy. With that in mind it is hard to deny that Woodlawn is anything but powerful, resulting in 256 baptisms at Cypress Church and many other decisions for Christ across the nation. For churches that have that strong foundation to build upon Woodlawn, Mom’s Night Out, or the new Erwin film I Can Only Imagine may lead to that mountaintop moment in your congregation.

Just be sure to take Murphy’s advice not to live there. Always remain open to what God has in store, because it is a big world, and we have a great commission.

MEGAN K IRBY is a freelance writer & editor based out of Louisville, KY.

Show Woodlawn at Your Church with the Movie Event Kit Includes:

•DVD copy of Woodlawn •Event Planning Guide •DVD Series •Journal •Leader's Guide •Pastor's Kit Learn more at cityonahillstudio.com/woodlawn

TRIVIA QUIZ ON "I CAN ONLY IMAGINE" How long did "I Can Only Imagine" peak at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Sales chart?

1

What is the name of the band who created and first recorded "I Can Only Imagine"?

A) Tenth Avenue North

B) MercyMe

C) Third Day

D) Needtobreathe

"I Can Only Imagine" is one of only four Christian singles to reach over two million digital downloads.

3

False

"I Can Only Imagine" first played on mainstream radio in: A) Dallas

B) Chicago

C) Los Angeles

D) New York

How long did it take Bart Millard, lead vocalist and song writer, to write "I Can Only Imagine"?

A) One year

B) 3 months

C) One week

D) Less than a day

5

B) 4 weeks

C) 6 weeks

D) 10 weeks

7

This is the location to question 3

True

A) 2 weeks

The band’s name, MercyMe, originated from Bart Millard’s grandma expressing concern for her grandson; “Well mercy me, why don’t you get a real job?”

True

False

In 2002, "I Can Only Imagine" won the Dove Award for 'Song of the Year'.

True

False

9

The song "I Can Only Imagine" has been covered by several artists including...

A) Amy Grant

B) Chris Tomlin

C) Michael W. Smith D) All of the above

"I Can Only Imagine" was played onboard Space Shuttle Atlantis.

True

False

What year was "I Can Only Imagine" released?

A) 2000

B) 2003

C) 2001

D) 2002

Space Shuttle Atlantis

1. B) Mercy Me 2. False "I Can Only Imagine" is the only Christian single to reach that milestone. 3. A) Dallas. In 2003, a Dallas mainstream radio station responded to listeners requests and played "I Can Only Imagine" on their morning show, and it was soon the most requested song on that station. 4. D) Less than a day 5. C) 2001 6.

D) 10 weeks 7. True 8. True 9. D) All of the above 10. True. I Can Only Imagine was played as a wake-up call for Barry E. Wilmore aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis.

RESTORED TO GOD. RESTORED TO EACH OTHER.

B OO K AVA I L A B L E AT

F E AT U R I N G A F R E E 3 0 - DAY V I D E O ST U DY

Everyone's stuck in some area of their lives - it might be a behavior, a relationship, or a desire, but we're all stuck somewhere. We're missing out on the life God has for us. We need to be restored. In this incredibly practical book, pastor Vince Antonucci uses biblical principles, humor, and lessons learned in rehab to restore us into the abundant life Jesus promised.

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