A local church is hoping that the community will join them to see one of the latest Christian films before its DVD release.

Covenant Baptist Church Pastor Tommy Green said churches were able to purchase a license to show “God’s Not Dead 2” prior to the release, and they thought it would be a good movie to show.

“We are just trying to reach people,” he said.

This isn’t the church’s first time holding a Sunday night movie, he said.

“We had a showing of ‘Woodlawn’ last time and we had a great showing,” he said.

In fact close to 100 people attended the event.

Green said it’s family friendly and it’s free to the public.

“We’ll also have free popcorn, candy and free soft drinks,” he said.

The church can seat up to about 175 people, he said.

According to the movie’s website, the movie takes place in Hope Springs, “home not only of Hadleigh University, but also Martin Luther King Jr. High School, where beloved teacher Grace Wesley helps students understand and enjoy history. Her love of teaching, her love for her students and her love of life all come from the same place: her love of Christ.

“So, when Brooke, a hurting student grieving the loss of her brother, reaches out to Grace, their coffee-shop conversation naturally leads to Grace sharing the hope she finds in Christ.”

Later, Grace is under fire after she answers Brooke’s question about Jesus in the classroom.

Grace refuses to apologize.

The principal and superintendent join forces with a civil liberties group, and the school board votes to suspend her and threatens to revoke her teacher’s certificate.

Grace is forced to stand trial to save her career and hires young lawyer Tom Endler, played by Jesse Metcalf, to defend her in her legal proceedings.

Tom devises a powerful strategy to show the jury to historical significance of Grace’s classroom discussion about Jesus.

The event will be held on Sun., Aug. 7, at 6 p.m. The church is located on U.S. Hwy. 84, one mile east of the airport.