Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas is airing this weekend among all the Lifetime holiday films. The Christmas movie is sure to be one of your favorite releases this season. It stars Demetria McKinney and Chaz Lamar Shepard.

The movie is produced by Swirl Films and Big Dreams Entertainment, and executive produced by Franklin and Tracy “Twinkie” Byrd, produced by Leslie Greif, Eric Tomosunas, and Ron Robinson. It features a special appearance and songs written and arranged by Kirk Franklin.

The film follows an assistant pastor, Olivia, who has new a new assignment to become a lead pastor. Fearful she can’t manage the transition into her new position, Olivia finds herself lost in the dumps. Olivia and her new congregation band together to bring the church back on top and compete for the Jamboree. The film features a special appearance and songs written and arranged by Kirk Franklin.

Shadow and Act spoke with Franklin on the period of transition and arraignment of songs throughout the film.

Just like Olivia, Franklin has seen many people go through transitions, and he believes, “Transition periods can be very scary, especially when you are just leaning on them through your own understanding when you’re trying to navigate through life-changing decisions that can affect the trajectory of your core existent. It’s important to have accountability and strong prayer life, Franklin shares.”

“Risks have to be calculated, but nothing great never happened when people are not willing to take life-changing moments to see what’s on the other side,” said Franklin.

Seeing what’s on the other side can either come as a reward or a problem. Olivia learned just how important it is to transition, take chances and believe in herself musically. Musically Franklin had the opportunity to “reimagine those songs.”

He shared that the closing song was his favorite, because “it was a Christmas song that turned into a bop, it was mad cool.” He continues, “I added some Lawry’s sauce to it. It felt good [and] it was special to do that. I’m excited.”

It’s advised that you watch the film because Franklin said, “It’s a snuggly moment; put on your snuggy and feel good.”

Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas airs Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. on Lifetime.