Mel Gibson Teams Up With Pastor Samuel Rodriguez for ‘The Resurrection of the Christ’
Samuel Rodríguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), will work alongside Mel Gibson as an ambassador for the upcoming film "The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One.”
The collaboration started after Gibson invited Rodriguez to the film set in Italy, where filmmakers and church leaders agreed to mobilize churches ahead of the film's release dates in May 2027 and May 2028, as well as the special re-release of "The Passion of the Christ” next month, for a limited time in theaters from Sept. 10 to 17, 2026.
"The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the defining event in the history of humanity," Rodríguez noted. "It is an honor to serve alongside Mel Gibson and this extraordinary team to help bring this story to audiences around the world, at a time when so many people are searching for hope, purpose, and truth."
As an ambassador, Rodriguez will help connect Christian organizations, pastors and local congregations in using cinematic storytelling as an evangelistic outreach tool, The Christian Post reported.
"My prayer is that this film will inspire a new generation to encounter the transformative power of Jesus Christ and remind audiences everywhere that, through Him, redemption and a new life are possible," Rodriguez added regarding the spiritual significance of the production.
Additionally, Rodriguez joined evangelist Franklin Graham and Cardinal Raymond Burke in a promotional video encouraging the public to see "The Passion of the Christ" again in theaters.
Rodriguez, who leads the New Season church in Sacramento, Calif., helped launch BeLight Productions back in January. This move was particularly noteworthy because it made Rodriguez the first Latino pastor to lead a major film production company.
According to its website, BeLight Productions "illuminates hope through cinematic excellence and courageous storytelling for a global audience."
He also produced acclaimed films "Breakthrough" and "Flamin' Hot," a 2023 film directed by Eva Longoria.
Rodriguez noted that films and filmmaking can have a monumental impact on society and that our world desperately needs to hear the good news of Jesus Christ.
"Film is one of the most powerful avenues to impact and cultural change," said pastor Rodríguez at the time.
He added: "Right now, our world needs to be reminded of the truth and beauty of the Gospel and inspired to live in alignment with that truth. That is the goal for BeLight Productions. Through excellent movies, we want to join God in the work He is already doing to bring the world to Himself."
Photo Credit: ©Facebook.com/RevSamuelRodriguez
Originally published August 31, 2026.
