Actor Jason McLeod, who appeared in the films “Facing the Giants” and “Fireproof,” spoke Sunday during the youth fall revival at First Baptist Church of Ludowici.

Though the service was focused on youth, the pews were packed with more than 400 people of all ages who listened to the former Georgia Southern football player. His wife Meagan also attended.

McLeod said that he has been speaking to churches since 2007 about issues effecting teens.

“As a result of ‘Facing the Giants,’ I’ve been blessed with a platform to act on a passion that is in my heart, going out and speaking to students,” McLeod said. “But even though the topics are focused on youth, I believe everyone can relate to them.

“The Lord gave me this opportunity, and I want to be a good steward with it and tell as many people as I can about Jesus,” he added.

McLeod’s topic came from Psalm 42: 1-2, which is about a thirsty deer drinking water from a stream. McLeod told the audience that just as this deer had an excessive thirst and only the water could quench it, Christians need to have this same thirst for God and only He can quench it for them.

McLeod said that he feels blessed to have been a part of films that have been enjoyed by Christian and mainstream audiences. He also talked about the cultural effect films in that genre have had during the past several years.

“‘Facing the Giants,’ ‘Fireproof’ and now ‘Courageous’ all are directed at a Christian audience, but they have had a ripple effect, and many who never have attended church have gotten something out of them, from the values that they stress,” he said.

According to imdb.com, those three films have a combined box-office gross of more than $78 million.

Eric Sizemore, the church’s youth minister, was excited about the number of people who showed up for the event.

“We’ve counted 419 people here tonight from several different churches; that’s a real blessing,” Sizemore said. “I’m thankful to Jason and Meagan for being here, and all of the youth who got pumped up to get them here.”

Meagan McLeod spoke of a second ministry that they worked with through Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany.

“The Alpha Pregnancy Center is a place where girls of all ages can get support when they are pregnant,” Meagan McLeod said. “All too often, they are having to go through this time alone, or their boyfriend may be pushing them to having an abortion, and through the center they can see that they have another option, and we’re there to help them free of charge.”

After McLeod’s message, a meal was provided for all guests. McLeod signed autographs and talked with fans. McLeod said he is not working on a film, but is working on other ministries that include local needs in Albany and worldwide missions.

For more information, call 229-431-2343.