It is on rare occasion that the Baptist Messenger gives strong endorsement to motion pictures, but such is the case with the new movie “Fireproof” opening Sept. 26 in theatres nationwide. The film is produced by the creators of “Facing the Giants,” and far exceeds anything the group from Sherwood Church in Albany, Ga. has produced to date.

Starring Kirk Cameron and Erin Bethea, the movie centers on the struggles of Cameron’s character, a successful firefighter named Captain Caleb Holt. Inside burning buildings, Holt lives by the old firefighter’s adage, “Never leave your partner behind.” At home, in the cooling embers of a failing marriage with his wife, Catherine, played by Bethea, Holt lives by his own rules. Regular arguments with Catherine over jobs, finances, housework and outside interests lead the couple down the road to divorce. Hearing the news of Holt’s marital troubles, Holt’s father challenges his son to commit to a 40-day experiment titled the “The Love Dare.” Holt agrees, but while trying to stay true to his promise, he becomes frustrated and struggles to determine whether his marriage is worth the fight. His job is to rescue others. Now Captain Caleb Holt faces his greatest challenge, rescuing his marriage.

Based on the responses we observed at two exclusive Baptist Messenger screenings of the film with pastors and staff, “Fireproof” is certain to be a favorite among Christian and secular audiences alike.

The movie touches nearly every emotion. Whether a suspenseful scene from a burning building, a humorous glimpse inside a playful firehouse or a moving moment between husband and wife, “Fireproof” draws audiences into an action-packed, real-to-life world that touches the audience with a message of hope and inspiration.

Gary Smalley, family counselor, president and founder of the Smalley Relationship Center and author of books on family relationships had this to say about the film. “Amazing! Action-packed, heartwarming and a great resource to help strengthen and affirm marriage.”

Craig von Buseck of CBN.com said, “‘Fireproof’ is a challenging look at marriage and what the meaning of love truly is.”

“We believe ‘Fireproof’ paints a 21st- Century picture of the faith, hope and love that makes life and marriage work. Adversity and fires will come, but we believe the message of this movie provides the powerful alternative of hope,” said Michael Catt, executive producer of “Fireproof” and senior pastor of Sherwood Church.

“Fireproof” provides churches with a rare and unique opportunity to engage their communities by sponsoring showings of the movie in local theaters as well as helping couples fireproof their marriage with inspirational resources, tools and ideas designed to foster healthy marriages. We highly encourage all Southern Baptist churches to visit www.fireproofthemovie.com. The Web site includes many downloadable resources and ideas for reaching married couples and strengthening marriages.

Visit www.messengerradio.com after Sept. 23 to hear an exclusive interview with Cameron and Bethea regarding their roles in the movie and what their hopes are for the film.

“Fireproof” is a great opportunity to strengthen marriages in our churches and communities. It is certainly worthy of our support. Don’t miss “Fireproof,” opening in theaters nationwide Sept. 26.