NEWBURYPORT
Old South Presbyterian Church screens
A Great Awakening
THURSDAY Oct. 15 | 7:00 PM
In honor of the nation’s 250th birthday, on Thursday, October 15 at 7:00 pm, Old South Presbyterian Church (29 Federal Street, Newburyport) will host a viewing of the film A Great Awakening, which explores the unlikely friendship between eighteen th-century preacher George Whitefield and Benjamin Franklin.
The Rev. George Whitefield, considered by many historians to be “America’s forgotten founding father” and first national celebrity, inspired the founding of Old South in 1756 and is buried beneath the pulpit. His preaching helped galvanize the colonies and shape the American independence movement. Old South has been an international destination for centuries and attracts visitors from all over the world.
A Great Awakening was produced by Sight & Sound Productions (www.sight-sound.com). It has received strong audience praise and industry attention, including a rare A+ CinemaScore. Many critics have praised the film’s high production values and strong performances.
A Great Awakening dramatizes the life and legacy of George Whitefield and his surprising partnership with Benjamin Franklin, who became one of the preacher’s closest friends and greatest promoters.
With the fledgling nation’s freedom hanging in the balance, Whitefield’s exa mple leads Franklin to
discover that true liberty cannot be written into law alone-it must be awakened in the hearts of the people.
The film will be aired in Old South’s historic sanctuary. It is free to the public, but a voluntary donation will support the church’s many ministries serving the greater Newburyport area. The sanctuary is ADA compliant. A ramp to the building is located at the Beck Street entrance.
Old South also invites the community to attend one of its historic tours and learn more about Rev. George Whitefield, the Great Awakening, and the significant part the congregation played in the political and spiritual birth of America. Free tours are offered every Sunday directly following the 10 a.m. service (usually around 11 :15-11 :30). On other days, guided tours are offered by appointment only.
Old South is a living congregation dedicated to ministering to the Greater Newburyport area. All are welcome to attend Sunday services at 10:00 am or to view them on the YouTube channel. Please visit:
www.oldsouthnbpt.org for upcoming events or call the church office at 978-465-9666 with any questions. ♦
