New Animated Film and Faith-Filled Books Help Kids Discover the Love of Christ
CAROL STREAM, IL/Sparta, WI (April 14, 2025)—Tyndale Kids and the Salvation Poem Project are thrilled to announce a meaningful new partnership rooted in a shared mission: to lead children to Jesus, share his truth, and help them fall in love with him. This collaboration brings together the creative strengths of two trusted organizations and introduces a collection of new resources designed to nurture kids’ faith—including four products from Tyndale Kids this fall and the upcoming animated feature film, Light of the World, from the Salvation Poem Project. Together, these offerings invite families to experience the life-changing story of Jesus in a fresh and accessible way—through both page and screen.
“Partnering with the Salvation Poem Project has been a joy,” said Linda Howard, associate publisher of Tyndale Kids. “Together, we are offering families a full experience—one that captures the beauty of Jesus’ story and invites kids to live a life for him.”
Releasing in theaters nationwide on September 5, 2025, Light of the World is a visually stunning 2D-animated film that tells the story of Jesus through the eyes of the apostle John. With artistic direction from seasoned Disney veterans—including directors John J. Schafer (Superbook) and Tom Bancroft (The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast), and animation director Tony Bancroft (Mulan, Mary Poppins Returns)—the film blends classic animation with heartfelt storytelling to capture the life, miracles, and resurrection of Jesus.
“It was vital that we partnered with a publisher who understood our ministry goals. Luckily, Tyndale is a ministry! It’s been an honor to labor together to share the gospel through these publishing products,” said Brennan McPherson, president of the Salvation Poem Project. “We believe that these books will not only extend people’s experience with our film, Light of the World, but will also give them real additional spiritual value.”
To support the film’s release, Tyndale Kids is publishing two books and two activity books this fall that extend the story beyond the screen and into homes, churches, and classrooms. Each resource is created to help kids connect with the heart of Jesus, understand his love, and build a faith that lasts:
- Light of the World: Josiah’s Story—A beautifully illustrated picture book that introduces Jesus through the eyes of a young boy named Josiah
- Light of the World Family Devotional—A 90-day devotional journey filled with Scripture, questions, and activities to bring families closer to God
- Light of the World: Friends of Jesus Coloring and Activity Book—A fun, interactive companion for kids to explore moments from the film
- Light of the World: Miracles of Jesus Coloring and Activity Book—Highlights Jesus’ miraculous works through playful and meaningful illustrations
This partnership also includes a free, downloadable kids’ ministry curriculum designed by pastors and children’s ministry leaders, inspired by Light of the World. It’s an ideal resource for churches and ministries eager to bring the gospel to life for the next generation.
With Tyndale’s longstanding legacy of publishing biblically sound and life-giving resources and millions already impacted by the Salvation Poem Project around the globe, this collaboration marks a powerful new chapter in faith-based family media.
Find more information on the kids’ books at mediacenter.tyndale.com.
Learn more, watch the official trailer, and access ministry resources at LightOfTheWorld.com.
About Tyndale House Publishers
Since its founding in 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has been a voice to trust for generations of readers. Today, Tyndale is one of the largest independent Christian publishers in the world. Tyndale’s mission is to make the Bible accessible to as many people as possible in language that they can relate and respond to. Tyndale publishes the Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT) and offers nonfiction books that equip readers with Christ-centered insight, counsel, and life-improving stories. In addition, Tyndale publishes fiction from fresh new voices and celebrated authors alike, capturing the imagination of millions of readers. With a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing future generations, Tyndale also publishes children’s products that make God’s Word and wisdom come alive. Tyndale’s independent status allows it to follow its founding model, giving a substantial portion of annual revenue—millions of dollars per year—through corporate donations and the work of Tyndale House Foundation. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.
About the Salvation Poem Project
The Salvation Poem Project is a team of filmmakers, game developers, and multimedia storytellers whose goal is to craft stories to share Jesus Christ with the world. Hundreds of millions worldwide have been reached by the Salvation Poem Project’s intellectual property through printed literature, radio and tv broadcasts, websites, social media, smartphone apps (and more) in nearly 100 languages.
Media Contact: Andrea Martin, andreamartin@tyndale.com, 630.784.5318
