BIBLICAL MASTERPIECE

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 3, Issue 285, 19 March 1941, Page 5

BIBLICAL MASTERPIECE

GRAND THEATRE'S PRESENTATION NEXT WEEKS ATTRACTION "I want everyone to see it. Please give me some advertising matter to display in the main entrance of St. Matthew's Church." Tims spoke Canon Coats following a preview of "From Manger to Cross" the film which is to be presented at the Grand Theatre, Whakatane, on Tuesday and Wednesday next. Canon Coats was not alone in his wholehearted admiration of this film which depicts the life of Jesus c.f Nazareth and lias been applauded by clergymen throughout the Dominion. That this film will not only interest students of the Scriptures, but also all those who live along the lines of true Christianity and believe that the Salvation of our Empire to-day more than ever depends on the following of Christ's teachings, there is no doubt. The Story. The best known and most beloved story in the world is enacted very simply upon the actual sacred sites so dear to both Jew and Gentile. The story starts with a Bible opening at Genesis and the wojld is seen taking shape until maps appear showing Caesar in control of the world as this story starts. The pages of the Bible turn over to the New Testament as the story goes on to Mary's vision. His birth, flight into Egypt and heraldry by John the Baptist form the first part. And by the time Christ appears as a man the audience has got used to the technique of a film with Bible commentary. Then follows the most enthralling series of miracles as the great healer picks his way through crowds and villages and one is struck by His tenderness and by the modern application of His teachings.

Lastly the gripping scenes of His trial, the brutality of His fellow men, the Crucifixion, burial and Ascension. The f'.nal scene of the message of the Cross going round the world to this day leaves the finishing touches to the greatest picture ever made.