For 69 days, 33 Chilean Miners stared death in the face, wondering if anyone would rescue them after the collapse of the San Jose mine near Copiapo, Chile. And for 69 days, these men prayed, studied the Bible and relied on God for courage. Now, the story of these miners—and of the 2010 Chilean Mine Accident—is told in “The 33,” a film that hits theaters Nov. 13.
The film begins by calling attention to the owners of the mine, who had long-since ignored its deteriorating, 121-year-old foundation. Their apathy led to disaster when the mine collapsed, leaving all 33 workers trapped 200 stories underground. With an empty medical kit, a broken radio and minimal stored food, survival seemed unlikely.
Despite the odds, these 33 men banded together to fight for their lives. Every day, they portioned out food, studied the Bible and called to God for rescue. Eventually, the Chilean government took action, drilling holes to locate the chamber where the miners sought shelter. Rescuers located the men—and hoisted them from the mine, one by one.
Jimmy Sanchez, the youngest of the 33 miners at just 19-years old, wrote in a note from the mine: “There are actually 34 of us, because God has never left us down here.”
After you watch “The 33,” start a conversation about the movie with your family, community or church group. Discuss and reflect on the biblical themes and examples of faith throughout the movie. You can use these Scripture passages and discussion questions to get you started.
1. Psalm 23:4 (CEV): I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won’t be afraid. You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe.
How did the characters in the movie deal with their situation of literal darkness in the mine? Consider a time in your life when you felt overcome with fear. Did you encounter God during this time? Did God give you a shepherd’s rod to guide and protect you—a counselor, friend or specific passage in Scripture?
2. Joshua 1:9 (CEV): I’ve commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.
How did the miners—particularly Mario Sepulveda—demonstrate bravery in the face of danger? Have you ever been called to be courageous on behalf of others? Think about a time when God provided strength in the midst of uncertain circumstances. How did his provision equip you to serve those around you?
3. Hebrews 12:1 (CEV): Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won’t let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us.
How did the community of miners band together to maintain hope? How does your own community help you maintain hope? Think about the individual members of your community. How do they help you “run the race”—and fulfill the tasks before you?
4. Psalm 40:1-3 (CEV): I patiently waited, Lord, for you to hear my prayer. You listenedand pulled me from a lonely pit full of mud and mire. You let me stand on a rock with my feet firm, and you gave me a new song, a song of praise to you. Many will see this, and they will honor and trust you, the Lord God.
How did God provide for the miners who were stuck in a “pit”? How did they work to pull one another out of the “muck and mire?” Think about a time—past or present—when you felt stuck in your own pit. Now Imagine God setting your feet on solid ground. Imagine him singing a song of praise to you. What feelings and emotions does your imagination evoke?
