The much talked about "Passion of Christ" opens at movie theatres nationwide tomorrow. But that hasn't stopped churches in the Valley from getting seats at sneak previews. WHSV found out why there's such an interest.

The "Passion of Christ" is evoking a lot of passion from churches in the area. Many are encouraging their parishioners to go in groups to see the film, and encourage non-church members to do the same. That's not the case at the 1st Church of the Nazarene however.

"We've called out to our people to go and see the movie as a believer first," says Kerry Willis, Vision Pastor of the 1st Church of the Nazarene. "Then decide whether you're going to bring your kids or teens back."

Willis says his church is concerned about intimidating non church goers with a large church population in attendance.

"The presentation of the movie will show us what Jesus did," says Willis. "After that there'll be questions as to why did Jesus do what he did. And I believe that's where the church will serve it's purposer best to step into that role of answering questions that are asked from the movie."

But Willis says even non-believers will be drawn to the film because of its subject matter.

"History has recorded him as a very very real character. If you go to bookstores, he's still on the cover of magazines after two thousand years," says Willis. "And the fact that we're having this conversation about a man that lived two thousand years ago makes this story important."

Willis says he's looking forward to seeing the film and has already reserved a seat at the opening.