Visual Storytelling for the Holidays: The Making of ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ with Kevin Downes

The conversation explores the journey of bringing the beloved book to the big screen. Kevin discusses the collaborative effort with director Dallas Jenkins and the challenges of adapting a cherished story. He highlights the importance of staying true to the source material while making the narrative accessible to a wide audience.

Kevin shares valuable insights about visual quality in ministry and filmmaking. He emphasizes that visual quality matters because it demonstrates respect for people’s time and engagement, whether they’re paying for a movie ticket or participating in church services. Kevin explains that high production values aren’t just about budget size – even major films face budget constraints at every level.

He makes a crucial point about ministry visuals: the quality of presentation represents God to viewers. While acknowledging that production quality isn’t what drives the gospel’s impact, Kevin stresses that ministry leaders have a responsibility to put their best foot forward with the gifts God has given them. He views excellence in visual presentation as part of being “the hands and feet of Jesus.”

The discussion highlights how visual media has become the primary way people consume content today. Kevin shares from his 25-30 years of experience in production, explaining how quality doesn’t necessarily require massive budgets, but rather careful stewardship of available resources and a commitment to excellence that ultimately glorifies God. He encourages ministry leaders to value their audience’s time and energy by creating the best quality work possible within their means.

Through his journey from small-budget films to larger productions, Kevin demonstrates how consistent commitment to quality can lead to growth and improved resources over time, while maintaining that the core focus should always be on serving the audience and honoring God through the work.

FOLLOW

Want to stay connected with our show host Carl and his guests? You can find them on social media. Check out what they are doing in their ministries, see what they are working on and drop them an encouraging post.

Follow: Carl Barnhill | [email protected] |  

Follow: Kevin Downes | Kingdom Story Company |