The Christian photographer reminds the reader that Jesus said not to worry but to “seek His Kingdom first” and God will take care of our needs. He also invited those who are weary and burdened to find rest in Him.

“Maybe we should give it a try,” Belk suggested.

One of the aims of the photo collection, the 61-year-old photographer said, was to strip away the “religion” part of Christianity that has turned so many people away, and share the core message of who Jesus was and what He taught.

Belk believes the photos carry messages that God wants to say to people in the world struggling with countless problems right now.

In 2008, despite the economic downturn, Belk took time off from fashion photography and spent his own money to finance the project that cost $600,000 and took more than a year and a half.

Pre-production took 10 months and more than 100 extras were needed. An Italian actor played Jesus and a production company from Rome and a film crew from the US were hired.

Belk directed what he calls “the most gruelling, but most rewarding shoot” of his career.

All of the photos were shot in Matera, Italy, the location for Mel Gibson's movie “The Passion of the Christ”.

The fashion photographer-turned-Jesus’ camera man is considering exhibiting the collection worldwide in counterintuitive venues such as mass transit stations, corporate headquarters and projections onto urban buildings. He also hopes the images will be used in a greeting card line and small group curriculum.

Limited edition photographs, posters, 108-page photography book, DVD, and screensavers and wallpapers are available for sale. Proceeds from the sale of the photos will fund a worldwide tour of the exhibition.

On the Web: www.thejourneysproject.com