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Sometimes the silver screen is more effective than the pulpit.

The narratives found in cinema send strong theological messages, said Matthew S. Rindge, assistant professor of religious studies at Gonzaga University.

“In multiple ways film can be a meaningful, productive, helpful source for talking about who God is, what God is about, what it means be human and where people find meaning in their lives,” he said.

On July 12 he’ll present “Film as Theology: Finding Meaning and the Sacred in Cinema” at Temple Beth Shalom as part of the Spokane Area Jewish Family Services community lunch.

“When it comes to religious and anthropological questions, I think film does a more effective and interesting job of getting at those questions than a lot of churches or pastors or what one might call official theological sources,” he said.

At the luncheon Rindge will show several movie clips and discuss the religiosity of them with the audience.

Rindge said he’ll present both Christian and Jewish themes found in recent films.

“I think anyone interested in either film or media or in theology and God or questions about meaningful living or the intersection of those things will find it interesting and a potential meaningful experience,”  he said.

Rabbi Tamar Malino, director of SAJFS, said the community lunch is usually for seniors in the community, but is open to the general public this time because of the speaker.

“This is something that’s popular and we thought would appeal to a general audience. Movies are always fun,” she said.

It’s also an opportunity to promote interfaith dialogue, she said.

The event will be from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the temple, 1322 E. 20th Ave. Tickets are $5 for seniors and students and $10 for the general public and includes a vegetarian lunch.

Guests are asked to RSVP by Monday by calling (509) 747-7394 or emailing director@sajfs.org or iris@sajfs.org.