New Film Highlights the Plight and Prayer of Persecuted Christians Worldwide

‘Sabina’ in Theaters Nationwide Nov. 8-10 Following the International Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians

NASHVILLE, Nov. 1, 2021 - “Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years,” a new film from Lifeway and Fathom Events coming to theaters Nov. 8-10, shines a light on the story of persecution faced by Sabina and Richard Wurmbrand, co-founders of the nonprofit The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM). Like Christians living in hostile areas around the world today, the Wurmbrands chose to give up their comfort and safety in order to find a life that counts for eternity.

VOM is inviting Christians everywhere to be part of a Global Prayer Movement on Nov. 7, the International Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians (IDOP). The first request of persecuted Christians around the world, who continue to suffer today for wearing the name of Christ just as the Wurmbrands did, is “Pray for us!”

“It is important to understand that Christian persecution is not a myth or a thing of the past, something that ended after the last chapter of Acts. It is happening in more than 70 nations right now--in the 21st Century,” said Todd Nettleton, host of The Voice of the Martyrs Radio. “Powerful stories like Sabina’s are a testament to the remarkable faith of our Christian brothers and sisters who would rather give up comfort, safety or even their lives than deny Jesus. I hope that we all find inspiration in Sabina’s example--and the example of so many modern-day heroes of faith--to pay any necessary price to obey Christ’s call.”

“Sabina” conveys the realities of religious persecution and the cost of following Christ when faith is forbidden. Experiencing the Nazi occupation of Romania in 1940, the Wurmbrand’s were captured, imprisoned and tortured. Rising above circumstances, the couple chose to view their persecutors not as enemies but as an opportunity for mission - to show the love and forgiveness displayed by the Gospel.

Channeling their passion to helping fellow believers who found themselves giving their all for Christ, the Wurmbrands co-founded VOM, an interdenominational missions organization that today continues to proudly serve persecuted Christians around the world.

“The first request from our persecuted brothers and sisters is, ‘Will you pray for me?’” said Nettleton. “Our hope on IDOP is that millions of Christians will answer their simple request, and also will be inspired by their example to pay any price necessary in obedience to Christ.”

To equip churches to pray on Nov. 7, VOM is offering free resources, including Finding Life, a short video sharing one chapter from the Wurmbrands’ story, guided prayer slides, church bulletin inserts, sermon outlines, questions for reflections and discussion, a YouVersion reading plan and sheet music to the hymn “It Is Well.”

For more information about the free resources for IDOP visit persecution.com/idop.

“Religious persecution is real and is still happening today,” said Nettleton. “There are modern-day Richard and Sabina Wurmbrands right now living out their own stories of faith, suffering and forgiveness in places like China, Iran and Nigeria. As Christians, we must not allow fear to stop us from boldly proclaiming the gospel, no matter the cost.”

Tickets for the theatrical showing of “Sabina” are now available for purchase. Individual ticket purchasers may also claim a free copy of “Wurmbrand: Tortured for Christ, The Complete Story,” which provides a more in-depth look into the Wurmbrands’ story. For information, visit the film’s website at SabinaMovie.com.

About The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM)
The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) is a nonprofit, interdenominational missions organization serving persecuted Christians in more than 70 nations around the world. Founded in 1967 by Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, VOM is dedicated to inspiring believers to deepen their commitment to Christ and to fulfill His Great Commission — no matter the cost. For more information, visit VOM.org.

About Lifeway
In operation since 1891, Lifeway Christian Resources is one of the leading providers of Christian resources, including Bibles, books, Bible studies, worship music, VBS, and church supplies, as well as camps and events for all ages. Since 1979, Lifeway has been creating camp environments focused on life change and spiritual growth through Jesus Christ. Lifeway is also the world’s largest provider of Spanish Bibles. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Lifeway receives no denominational funding and operates as a self-supporting nonprofit. For more information, visit Lifeway.com.

About Fathom Events
Fathom is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal Cinemas, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in the top U.S. markets and more than 45 countries. For more information, visit FathomEvents.com.

-30-

 

Hymn Writers Keith and Kristyn Getty Release Official Music Video for ‘It Is Well With My Soul’

New song featured in forthcoming Film, ‘Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years’

NASHVILLE, Sept. 27, 2021 - Getty Music today released the official music video for Keith and Kristyn Getty’s new rendition of the timeless hymn, “It Is Well With My Soul.” The song is featured in the forthcoming film, “Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years,” which shares the inspiring, true story of Sabina (Oster) Wurmbrand and her husband Richard, who founded The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM), an interdenominational missions organization that serves persecuted Christians around the world. 

The new music video includes footage shot in Northern Ireland of the expansive coast, roaring waves and towering cliffs to complement the original song. Scenes from “Sabina” representing the love and forgiveness Sabina Wurmbrand showed and illustrating the Wurmbrands’ lives are intertwined throughout the video. 

“We are honored to support the film ‘Sabina’ and believe the message of forgiveness is important for all to hear, ” said Keith and Kristyn Getty, known for their championing of hymns over the past twenty years. “We pray that viewers are moved by the lyrics of ‘It Is Well With My Soul’ and reflect on the importance of trusting God in all circumstances.”

Set during World War II, “Sabina” takes viewers on a journey through Romania to discover why Sabina Wurmbrand, a Jewish Christian, would risk her life to offer a kind hand to German soldiers—enemies who killed her entire family. The film conveys the realities of religious persecution during that era and the cost of following Christ when faith is forbidden. Richard Wurmbrand was imprisoned and tortured for 14 years in a Communist prison, while Sabina Wurmbrand experienced three years in prison and forced labor then she continued to carry on the missionary work of her husband. 

Directed by John Grooters and distributed by Lifeway Films, “Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years” will premiere in theaters nationwide on Nov. 8, 9 and 10, through a special Fathom Event release, following the observance of International Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians on Nov. 7. To learn more and to purchase tickets for “Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years,” visit https://www.sabinamovie.com/.

After premiering at Sing! 2021 in the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee, “It Is Well With My Soul” will be featured on the Getty’s upcoming album releasing Fall 2021 and be part of their Christmas tour. Additionally, the song will be included in the Oct. 4 Getty Family Hymn Sing and the Oct. 17 Global Hymn Sing. As part of these events, millions of people will join in singing the Getty’s beautiful rendition of this classic hymn in an act of global solidarity, helping to bring awareness of “Sabina” and today’s persecuted Christians to national and international audiences. 

To listen to “It Is Well With My Soul” on streaming services visit, https://va.lnk.to/itiswell. 

About Keith & Kristyn Getty 
Keith and Kristyn Getty are pre-eminent modern hymn writers in the world today with Keith being the first Church Musician of the modern era to be awarded the OBE from Queen Elizabeth II, for services to music and hymn writing. Their hymns such as “In Christ Alone”, written with Stuart Townend, uniquely cross musical genres and teach Christian doctrine. As ambassadors of hymn writing, they have performed for presidents, prime ministers, their annual national hymn tour and Christmas tour including sell-out concerts each year at Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall.

Since founding Getty Music, it has expanded to include a publishing company of modern hymn writers, record label, touring company, online learning company, foundation and inspired by their first book, the “Sing” Conference & Festival which welcomes over 15,000 people to Nashville every year. Keith & Kristyn live between Nashville and Northern Ireland with their four daughters.

About The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) 
The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) is a nonprofit, interdenominational missions organization serving persecuted Christians in more than 70 nations around the world. Founded in 1967 by Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, VOM is dedicated to inspiring believers to deepen their commitment to Christ and to fulfill His Great Commission — no matter the cost. For more information, visit VOM.org.

About Lifeway
In operation since 1891, Lifeway Christian Resources is one of the leading providers of Christian resources, including Bibles, books, Bible studies, worship music, VBS, and church supplies, as well as camps and events for all ages. Since 1979, Lifeway has been creating camp environments focused on life change and spiritual growth through Jesus Christ. Lifeway is also the world’s largest provider of Spanish Bibles. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Lifeway receives no denominational funding and operates as a self-supporting nonprofit. For more information, visit Lifeway.com.

About Fathom Events
Fathom is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal Cinemas, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in the top U.S. markets and more than 45 countries. For more information, visit FathomEvents.com.

-30-

‘Sabina’ Shares Powerful Story of Faithfulness, Love and Forgiveness

Lifeway and Fathom Events Partner to Tell True Story of The Voice Of The Martyrs’ Co-Founder Sabina Wurmbrand In a Powerful Theatrical Release

NASHVILLE, August 31, 2021 - Turmoil and hardships often cultivate outstanding character. Releasing in theaters Nov. 8-10,  Fathom Events' latest special, “Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years,” tells the powerful true story of Sabina (Oster) Wurmbrand and her husband, Richard. Sabina and Richard Wurmbrand are the co-founders of the nonprofit The Voice of the Martyrs - an interdenominational missions organization that serves persecuted Christians around the world.

sabina art.png

“Richard and Sabina were exemplary Biblical disciples. Their story pushes each of us to rethink our concept of forgiveness and what it looks like to love our enemies as Jesus instructed,” said Todd Nettleton, Chief of Media Relations and Message Integration for The Voice of the Martyrs—USA and host of VOM Radio. “Sabina’s life is ultimately a testament of how God’s love can transcend pain and struggle—and even transform the lives of those around us. This story is truly inspiring. It will encourage every viewer to be transformed from the inside out by the power of God.”

Set during World War II and spanning the years between 1938 to 1944, the film will take viewers on a journey through Romania to discover why Sabina, a Jewish Christian, would risk her life to offer a kind hand to German soldiers—enemies who killed her entire family. “Sabina” conveys the realities of religious persecution and the cost of following Christ when faith is forbidden.

“Making a period piece like ‘Sabina’ was a delightful artistic challenge – recreating what Romania looked like in the 1930’s and 40’s down to every fine detail like fashion, automobiles and storefronts,” said Director John Grooters. “But even more substantially, I find Sabina Wurmbrand to be one of the greatest women of the 20th century, and it’s a joy getting to introduce her to modern audiences.”

Winner of Best Feature, Audience Choice and Best Original Film Score awards at the recent Christian Worldview Filmmakers Guild and Festival, “Sabina,” which was filmed on-site in Romania and produced by a Romanian crew, is receiving high praise and recognition. “Sabina” is a prequel to The Voice of the Martyrs,’ “Tortured for Christ” film which focuses on the inspiring story of Sabina’s husband Richard Wurmbrand as he endured 14 years of prison and torture while never ceasing to shine the light of Christ even in the darkest of places.

The film features an original song “It Is Well” from modern hymn-writers Keith and Kristyn Getty. The Getty’s reinvent traditional hymns that teach Christian doctrine by crossing the genres of traditional, classical, folk and contemporary music composition.

“It has been our great privilege to partner with The Voice of the Martyrs on their upcoming film, ‘Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years.’ This stirring story of faith and triumph in the midst of adversity and the courage of the Wurmbrands in the face of unspeakable evil is an urgent call to believers everywhere to fight the good fight of faith and build the Kingdom of Christ, no matter the opposition,” said Keith and Kristyn Getty. “We highly recommend you get your friends, family or church together to share in this amazing experience.”

Tickets are now available for purchase. Individual ticket purchasers may also claim a free copy of “Wurmbrand: Tortured for Christ, The Complete Story,”  which provides a more in-depth look into the Wurmbrands’ story, via the film’s website at SabinaMovie.com. Group study kits focused on the life of the Wurmbrands are offered free with group ticket sales.

“Religious persecution is real and is still happening today,” said Nettleton. “There are modern-day Richard and Sabina Wurmbrands right now living out their own stories of faith, suffering and forgiveness. As Christians, we must not allow fear to stop us from boldly proclaiming the gospel and extending Christ’s grace and love to all.”

“Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years” will show in theaters nationwide on Nov. 8, 9 and 10, following the observance of the International Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians on Nov. 7. To learn more and to purchase tickets for “Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years,” visit https://www.sabinamovie.com/.

About The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM)
The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) is a nonprofit, interdenominational missions organization serving persecuted Christians in more than 70 nations around the world. Founded in 1967 by Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, VOM is dedicated to inspiring believers to deepen their commitment to Christ and to fulfill His Great Commission — no matter the cost. For more information, visit VOM.org.

About Lifeway
In operation since 1891, Lifeway Christian Resources is one of the leading providers of Christian resources, including Bibles, books, Bible studies, worship music, VBS, and church supplies, as well as camps and events for all ages. Since 1979, Lifeway has been creating camp environments focused on life change and spiritual growth through Jesus Christ. Lifeway is also the world’s largest provider of Spanish Bibles. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Lifeway receives no denominational funding and operates as a self-supporting nonprofit. For more information, visit Lifeway.com.

About Fathom Events
Fathom is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal Cinemas, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in the top U.S. markets and more than 45 countries. For more information, visit FathomEvents.com.

-30-