I 'first' learned of this movie when a classmate/friend said to me on Friday afternoon, "Kim, you know with October being 'horror' movie month, last night I went out to see "Jesus Camp." I hadn't heard anything of this movie, so I thought it might be some 'Freddie Krueger' type movie, based at a Christian camp for something. He laughed at me, as I was a bit slow on the uptake, and told me that this was a documentary about a Christian 'boot camp' for kids. Then I remembered seeing a clip on ABC's "Good Morning America" with the camp director and a guy who was opposed to this camp.
Let's just say, after about 5 minutes, I was at once biting my tongue and praying so much for our world, for those kids, for those leaders who feel this is part of discipleship. Walking back from the theatre, my friends and I were just asking questions and calling out quotes and images that stuck in our minds. Among these were: where was the Gospel in any of this; Gospel of fear; "...that's why we use kids"; this is the image of Christianity that many across the country understand as 'normal'; who is that radio commentator?; the true spirit within those kids was overpowered by their intense fear; indoctrination; brainwashing; did I mention fear.?
Also walking back, Jessica said, "We need to make 'our' own video, and show 'another' side. That wasn't 'Christianity' but we can't make it an us vs. them issue, for Christ's love and grace is for 'them' too!" So we poked/joked about creating our own video of the day in and day out reality of a Christian community - not the Christian community, but a Christian community.
Have you seen this movie? What did you think about it, feel about it? Watch for further reflections, as we seek to bring this movie into a community conversation here within the Trinity community. Keep ya posted!
UPDATE: OK, found some websites I thought might be of some interest and information.
Jesus Camp - the movie
The Pap Attack - Ring of Fire (Mike Papantonio)
Pastor Becky Fischer
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UPDATE: Jessica has called us all to account and responsibility. We have been b*tching and complaining about Becky Fischer, and yet aren't we called to engage in conversation and dialogue, rather than attack and taunt? So, there are a few of us here at TLS who will gather together to write a letter(s) (probably emails) to Becky Fischer to share with her what we saw, what concerns us, and how we see our call as disciples of Christ. Wanna join in the conversation? Justa let me know!
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