More than 300 people attended a special preview screening of Amazing Grace-the life story of William Wilberforce, England's Christian abolitionist leader. The movie is produced by Walden Media, the same company that produced The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and is due to open in theaters nationwide Feb. 23.

The nearly two-hour drama was well-received by the audience, who applauded at the end. Besides being asked to sign the petition and spread the word about the movie, those who came were encouraged to participate in Amazing Grace Sunday, set for Feb .18, when churches worldwide are encouraged to sing the classic hymn “Amazing Grace” and pray for the end of slavery.

Barbara Rutherford, owner of the Lighthouse Christian Bookstore in Marysville, Ohio, was crying after the film ended. On the way to Advance this week, Rutherford said she was led by God to listen to “Amazing Grace” on Focus on the Family's Radio Theatre, which tells the story of Wilberforce.

“It's amazing how God set me up,” said Rutherford, as she wiped her tears. “I knew the entire history of this movie before I walked in here. He encouraged me. It's about standing strong for what you believe in.”

Ruth and William Scudder, owners of Grace Station in Royal Oak, Mich., which will open this spring, were both touched by Amazing Grace.

“I will get the fliers, and call family and relatives,” Ruth Scudder said. “The movie clearly shows that even the most wretched of sinners, God can save his soul, and that's a wonderful thing. This is a movie everyone should see.”

Her husband added: “It was a history lesson more than entertainment. It's a movie that reaches down to the soul and changes your inside. We need more of that in movies.”

Welcoming people to the screening, CBA President Bill Anderson said that Amazing Grace was "more than a movie, it is an opportunity" to present some of the relevant materials being produced in conjunction with the release to consumers.

Steve Potratz, president of The Parable Group, said significant space was being given in the group's March catalog to related products. “Personally, I will be working with all my churches in my market,” he said. “Our pastors are really interested in using this movie as an evangelistic tool and to educate people about the slave trade.”

The film was “wonderful. It was very well done. It was telling the truth and will really be a powerful tool for believers to open dialogue.”