Debbie believes the holidays open us to God’s love in a unique way.
Debbie Winans Lowe has spent a lifetime lifting hearts through worship. This Christmas, she brings that same warmth to the big screen in Karen Kingsbury’s The Christmas Ring, portraying “Maria”—a steady friend whose wisdom and tenderness help anchor a story about love, loss, legacy and redemption.
Listen to the full conversation between Crystal Thornton and Debbie Winans Lowe in the podcast below.
What began as a neighborly text from Kingsbury became Debbie’s first major film role—complete with a SAG (Screen Actors Guild) card and a surprise: her rendition of “O Holy Night” rolls over the end credits. But for Debbie, the bigger win was how God used an ordinary day on set to meet someone in extraordinary need.
“I decided I’m going to fumble forward—mention Jesus—and trust that He shows up.”
A Call That Felt Like a Wink From Heaven
Debbie didn’t chase acting; it found her—through a text from Kingsbury and an audition overseen by Tyler Russell, whom Debbie had worked with years earlier.
“I read the script and thought, this character is me—a kind, loyal friend who tells the truth.”
Her DIY audition—complete with a second phone, voice changes for other characters, pajama pants and a jean jacket—won everyone over.
“Your video was unique and full of energy… you beat out the rest,” according to Debbie.
She filmed two intense weeks—mostly 8–10 hour days with one marathon 18–24 hour day—then learned she’d be joining SAG.
“They had to sign me up… I got my SAG with my first movie.”
Ministry Between “Action” and “Cut”
Debbie describes Kingsbury’s set as prayer-soaked and purpose-driven.
“Karen asked, ‘What’s God telling you, Debbie? Everyone here doesn’t know Him.’ She gave me permission to minister.”
During a party scene, Debbie sat with real military extras. One young dad shared that his wife was fighting cancer.
“Right there, we prayed at the table. He cried. If I had to go through all this acting just to get to him—it was worth it.”
Maria’s Heart—and Debbie’s
Maria is the friend who shows up—faithful, encouraging, dependable. Debbie knows her well.
“We don’t wallow in our pain—we serve military families together. Comfort, support, encouragement… that’s who Maria is.”
Why Christmas Is the Perfect Time for Redemption
Debbie believes the holidays open us to God’s love in a unique way.
“Love is the main dish—God is love. We only know how to love because the Lover Himself loved us first.”
And when we include Him, our love becomes whole.
“We love correctly when we love through Him.”
Stepping Into New Territory—With Jesus at the Center
Debbie says yes to new opportunities as long as they don’t pull her out of God’s will or her calling at church.
“There’s nothing wrong with ambition—just don’t hoard it. Use every door God opens to share the Good News.”
Debbie’s Christmas Prayer
“For audiences: that hearts reopen to love in a culture growing cold.
For the world: that these six holiday weeks of kindness become a window God uses to redeem a nation.
For me: to love greater, deeper and wider—with His eyes and heart.”
Call to Action
Experience "The Christmas Ring" on the big screen this November and watch for the moment Debbie’s “O Holy Night” ushers you into worship. Bring a friend who needs hope—and ask God to help you “fumble forward” in love this season.
I’m Crystal Thornton with K-LOVE —where every story points back to the One who changes everything.
For more inspiring stories go to KLOVE.com/GodStories.