ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The North American Mission Board (NAMB) will launch the pilot of a new 30-minute TV program, “On Mission Xtra” (OMX), on Nov. 26, at 9:30 p.m. on the FamilyNet television network.

Atlanta-based FamilyNet — operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week — is seen in more than 30 million TV households in more than 200 markets via cable systems and broadcasters in the United States.

According to NAMB, On Mission Xtra will be a dynamic blend of missionary features, studio interviews and profiles of people who are reaching North America with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

“From adventures to heart-warming stories, On Mission Xtra will inspire you to look at your own mission field with a new perspective, and will challenge you to take part in God’s mission,” said Brandon Pickett, NAMB’s communications team leader and OMX executive producer.

Pickett added, “it will be exciting to see the stories in On Mission magazine come to life on the television screen.”

NAMB president Geoff Hammond calls the new television show “an opportunity to spotlight the huge mission field of North America.

“And although we need many more workers in this field, there are thousands of missionaries serving right now with amazing stories of what God is doing through Southern Baptists,” Hammond said.  “I’m so glad people from coast to coast and beyond, will now not only read about these stories, but see them each and every week on their television screens through FamilyNet.”

Actress Erin Bethea, currently starring in the highly successful Christian film “Fireproof,” serves as a co-host of On Mission Xtra.

“It’s unlike anything I’ve ever done before,” said the 26-year-old actress, a native Georgian who now makes her home in Orlando.

“I think the style of OMX reflects the message of the show, which is to get Christians to be relevant and think outside the box,” said Bethea. “The show is a little bit different than a lot of Christian TV programming.  I think it’ll get people’s attention. It’s snappier, and it has a good balance of humor and the serious message we’re trying to put across. The show has a ton of variety with stories from people all over North America, musical acts and interviews with ministry leaders.”

For a FamilyNet TV schedule or to check on FamilyNet availability in your area, access www.familynet.com.