Ayr residents will be able to watch the internationally popular television drama The Chosen together at a series of free weekly screenings starting this September.
Riverside Community Trust is inviting local people to Riverside Church, 24 John Street, for one complete episode every Wednesday from 3pm to 4pm. The programme begins on Wednesday, September 16, and will run for eight weeks.
There is no charge to attend and people do not need to reserve a place in advance. Juice and snacks will also be available during the screenings.
A series designed to bring people together
Created by American filmmaker Dallas Jenkins, The Chosen dramatises the life and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth through the experiences of the people who knew or encountered him.
Instead of focusing only on well-known biblical events, the series explores the personalities, relationships and everyday lives of figures including Mary Magdalene, Simon Peter, Matthew and Nicodemus.
The drama has built a large international audience and has been translated into numerous languages. Organisers say the group screenings offer local residents a different experience from watching the series alone at home.
Sarah Hunter, who is organising the Ayr screenings, said watching with others could create a sense of community. She acknowledged that the series is also free to watch at home, but said people valued activities that brought them together at Riverside.
Open invitation for Ayr residents
The invitation is open to everyone, including people of all faiths, people who do not attend church and those who do not follow a particular faith. Attendees are asked to respect other viewers while each episode is being shown.
No formal discussion sessions have been arranged. However, Hunter said she would be happy to speak with anyone who wanted to stay behind after an episode.
She described herself as a major fan of the programme, saying its professional and captivating approach brings the story to life in a way that reading cannot. The organisers believe films and television can provide a natural way for people to experience the story alongside others.
Further information is available from Jim Cobb on 01292 262686 or by emailing [email protected].