Mel Gibson Asks Churches to Pray as He Prepares to Release The Resurrection of the Christ

Mel Gibson is asking churches to pray for his upcoming film, The Resurrection of the Christ, as he works to complete the long-anticipated sequel to his 2004 blockbuster The Passion of the Christ.

Gibson made the appeal through CBN News in late October 2026, describing the project as spiritually significant and saying he believes prayer is essential to the film's success. He did not announce a release date but confirmed the project is moving forward.

The Passion of the Christ, released in 2004, became one of the highest-grossing films in history, earning more than $600 million worldwide. It was produced independently and distributed by Newmarket Films after major studios passed on the project. The sequel has been in development for years, with Gibson and screenwriter Randall Wallace working on the script.

Gibson told CBN that the resurrection story is the central event of the Christian faith and that he wants the film to reflect that weight. He said he is not rushing the project and wants to get it right.

Faith communities have long anticipated the sequel. Many pastors and church leaders used The Passion of the Christ as an evangelism tool when it was released, organizing group screenings and discussion groups. Some expect the sequel to generate similar interest.

No studio or distribution deal has been announced. Gibson has previously said he wants to maintain creative control over the project, which may mean another independent production.

CBN News noted that musician Forrest Frank also announced a 2027 film called The Jesus Generation, suggesting a broader wave of faith-based film projects in development.