All Saints Parent Guide

Problems with possibly objectionable content are not an issue in the faith-based movie All Saints. Other than a few moments of images from a website depicting the strife of living in a country with conflict and a tussle with police that leaves a character with a bloodied forehead, there are many good reasons to consider this title for family viewing.

The script is based on the true story of Michael Spurlock (John Corbett), a former salesman turned Episcopalian minister who has been assigned to his first church. However, instead of being asked to build up a congregation, his calling is to disband the small group of parishioners who regularly attend All Saints Episcopalian Church in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Located in an impoverished area, the $850,000 mortgage on the building is far greater than what’s coming in on the collection plate. With an eager developer wanting to build a commercial property on the land, it appears Reverend Spurlock’s assignment will be short and simple—until an unexpected group of new worshippers populate the empty pews.

Refugees from Southeast Asia, known as the Karen people, have settled within the small community. Escaping from the violence of political and religious persecution in their homeland, the legal immigrants were taught Christian principles by Anglican missionaries in Burma (Myanmar). Led by former solider Ye Win (Nelson Lee), also the only member of the group who speaks English, they are happy to have found an Episcopal church near their American home. In need of financial and spiritual support, the newcomers believe they can find both within the church community.

Not surprisingly, Michael doesn’t see how their tiny contingent, who can’t even cover their own expenses, can possibly support the struggling exiles. Nor is his “boss”, Bishop Thompson (Gregory Alan Williams), likely to be happy if he becomes distracted from the task of selling the building. However, Michael discovers a higher authority has different plans. Hearing a voice one rainy evening, the new preacher is immediately convinced God’s solution involves the Karen people (who are former farmers), the tiny flock of worshippers (some dealing with racial issues), the land around the sacred edifice and, most importantly, Reverend Spurlock’s faith.

Shot at the actual church that’s the centerpiece of the story and casting as extras many of the Karen people who have settled in the area, All Saints is a sincere effort that enlightens and inspires. It illustrates what a community of people (believers and otherwise) can achieve if they are willing to sacrifice and work together. It’s also a gentle reminder for church goers to deeply consider the purpose of their beliefs—especially when the call to serve others seems too inconvenient or uncomfortable.

About author

Rod Gustafson

Rod Gustafson has worked in various media industries since 1977. He founded Parent Previews in 1993, and today continues to write and broadcast the reviews in newspapers, on radio and (of course) on the Internet. His efforts also include writing and researching media in all its forms and observing how it effects society and culture. He and his wife Donna have four children.