On the last Saturday of each month, missions related movies are screened at the Church of the Nazarene in Ballester, Argentina, during Cine Misionero (Missionary Cinema). 

The purpose of Missionary Cinema is to understand the reality of cross-cultural missions, raise awareness of the culture shock experienced by missionaries, and highlight both the challenges and blessings of answering God's call.

This program was initiated by Estefania Santillan, NMI president at the church, who joined forces with NYI to develop the idea of involving and educating younger generations about missions.

A series of true-to-life films was created to help young people learn about missions through the lives of missionaries.

On Saturday, March 29, the "Spearhead" was screened. It is the story of Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Peter Fleming, and Roger Youderian, five missionaries who traveled to Ecuador to establish contact with the Huaorani, an isolated tribe in the Amazon rainforest.

"The film guides you and gives you an idea of what missions [mean] and the work involved in being a missionary," said attendee Paula Benitez. "It's worth watching, especially since it's a true story.

"During the film, I felt different sensations," said Paula. "At first, sadness for the end that the missionaries had. In the middle, they fear for their wives and children because they don't know if being in the jungle and living with the tribe, they could end up being killed. And at the end, [I felt] hope, when one of the strongest warriors of the tribe decides to stop killing and start making the change that later influences Mincayani."

Before the screening, leaders highlighted the Great Commission, the importance of caring for missionaries in the field, and the fundamental role of the local church in calling and sending missionaries.

The leaders believe it is crucial to emphasize the importance of a mission-educated, conscious, and active church, as preparation for the field necessitates time and instruction. 

The use of film, when combined with other strategies, helps the audience consider the challenges of the mission field, the importance of preparing both those who go and those who send, and, above all, encourages us to think about everything that happens after saying yes to the Lord. Lives are saved, and entire nations are transformed!

"It's a blessing to know that what happens in one local church is replicated in many others across our country," said Romina Miño, national NMI coordinator for Argentina. "Thanks to each pastor and each NMI team who facilitates opportunities like these, where the God of the missions mobilizes many."

--Church of the Nazarene South America