Theatre for Youth:  Children have a voice, but whose?

Humor in Church:  If we're created in God's image, then He has a sense of humor.  Just what does He find funny?

Marriage in Ministry:  When married couples perform together, who's the director?

 

Worship and Theatre:  When dramatizing scripture, shouldn't some creative licenses be revoked?

 

The Passion of Directing:  Mounting the Christmas or Easter production can unleash new meanings to "passion play," can't it?

 

Theatre with a Mission:  Americans may debate "styles of worship," but in many cultures the play's the thing.  How do we reach them?

The numerous conferences will yield a wealth of infomation to be shared.  Even if we could attend each conference, we could not attend each session.  We need correspondents... people willing to share some of their discoveries and insights from sessions at Willowcreek, CITA, Karitos and others.  If you're attending a conference and gather information to share, let us know.

"How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news." -- Isiah 52:7

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The Amen Corner

Prayers for Our Family

CTN is the part of the family of Christ who believe prayer, in the name of Jesus, is tangible communication with the Lord God Almighty, not simply words expressed that become vapors.  CTN is widespread, and continues to reach communities we had no expectation we would touch when we began. 

Most of us won't see each other this side of Glory, but we can grow closer by our common link.  That link isn't the blue words on the screen, or the .com or .org of our e-ddress, but the "Amen" at the end of our prayers.  "Amen," that means:  "It's in Your hands, Lord.  Do what You will in the name of Jesus, and we are content with Your answer."  God always answers prayers. He says, "Yes," "No," or "Wait."

Membership in the CTN family carries no dues or obligations right now.  You don't have to be a Believer to be part of CTN.  That you're reading this means you're concerned about your artistic brothers and sisters -- and cousins and spouses.  However, you do have one familial responsibility:  to pray for your siblings in the name of Jesus, the name above all names.

Throughout The Chronicles and the website are prayer requests.  You'll often see the specifics in bold.  When you come across these requests, pray then.  Quietly, but boldly ask the Lord to honor that request -- or series of requests -- for Christ's sake.  That is, to bring God the glory.  He wants us to ask.  Perhaps you can make a list of requests and pray for them regularly in private, or with your theatre ministry.

We encourage you, as well, to make your requests known -- be they about ministry, employment, relationships, financial, your church's plans, school, personal "unspoken" needs.  Don't be shy.  Share your desires at Prayer Requests and Praises in the Forum.  Your only obligation is that after making your request, come back to tell us God's answer:  Yes, No, or Wait.  Let the family share in your journey.

In the Forum, you'll also see occasional Topic Polls.  These are simply mechanisms to click and indicate whether or not you're praying for a specific request.  These polls aren't popularity votes.  Prayers with the most votes don't win God's favor.  It's simply a way for those who make the request to feel comfort from the family's prayer commitments.  And for those in the family to make a commitment.  Some of the Polls offer an opportunity for comment or a brief prayer.  Do so.

Remember, The Amen Corner is not just for Believers.  Prayer isn't magic.  It's not crossing fingers.  It's direct petitioning to God through His Son, Jesus Christ.  Prayer is for anyone who believes all things can be done through Christ who gives me strength.

In His Name, Amen.

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Section 2:  Voices of the People

Forum Feedback

 Our Readers Write

Among the most intriguing activities of CTN has been watching participation in the Forum.  The Forum enables visitors to register needs such as auditions, script searches, technical help; or just comment on issues in theatre, request prayer, suggest books or film of interest.

While we have many readers, few actually choose to comment, even in posts which include a simple three-point poll which could be answered in a matter of seconds.  Sometimes we’ve felt like announcers on stations at the top of the FM band -- anybody there?

Nevertheless, the Forum has grown from literally a handful of registered users when we began to almost 50.  So, an average of one a week isn't bad.

It's been reflective and fun, too, to read through exchanges from servants who share emotions in the wee hours of the morning or late at night as they discuss projects, work and ministry challenges in a manner not unlike the Psalms.

Here are some excerpts, not necessarily reflecting the writer's entire point of view:

Re: "Should the Pastor pre-approve all scripts the drama troupe is performing?"

"I use to think that a pastor's request to read one of our plays before confirming our appearance was a violation of my/our artistic and theological integrity. I would allow pastors, grudgingly, to review our scripts."  Jpaul, Valparaiso, IN. 

Then, there is fact that everyone in a cast may not be "saved" and yet they are portraying (overall by default of participation) a character that either come to the light or remains in the darkness ... later to learn his/her lesson about salvation. --  PMWR

Re:  "Who's Doing/Done The Purpose-Driven Life?"

"We're in the middle of Rick Warren's "The Purpose-Driven® Life" as a church study…and I wondered if anyone is also studying or has studied. There are several principles applicable to theatre ministry and professional pursuits." -- VJM, Chicago.

Re:  "Jesus Christ Superstar" meets Skid Row

While editing Upcoming Events, we discovered several new developments between Skid Row lead singer-turned actor Sebastian Bach and the "Jesus Christ Superstar" tour.  -- Re:  "The Sebastian Bach Website" -- http://www.sebastianbach.com/updates.html.

Re:  Response to "Dirty Bible Stories."

I think we gain a tremendous amount of insight in this kind of secular interpretation of the scriptures we hold as holy. We discover so much about the perspective of the world in which we live.  -- Shakespeare, Mo.

True, we're all busy, and not every exchange merits a statement.  Some people may not wish to be the first to comment on a topic, or may be overwhelmed by the number of replies in another.  Still, if you're a person inclined to read an item and not drop a note, do us a favor and give us feedback on how to respond.

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Professional Perspective   The Filming "Passion" of Mel Gibson   (One in a series where "celebrities" speak of Jesus and matters Christian)   Oscar winning actor-director Mel Gibson is in Rome these days, working on a film on the Passion of Christ at the Cinecittà studios.  The movie focuses on the last hours of Christ's life and stars Jim Caviezel ("The Thin Red Line," "Angel Eyes," "The Count of Monte Cristo") as Jesus. Gibson granted the following exclusive interview to ZENIT. (ZENIT has given permission to The Christian Theatre Chronicles to reprint the interview in the United States.  We thank Jim Sagadin for the connection.)  +++ Q: What made you decide to do this project? Gibson: It's been slowly coming on for about 10 or 12 years now. I'm a pretty old guy, but if you go back 12 years I was 35.That's when I started to investigate the roots of my faith. I had always believed in God, that He existed, and I was brought up to believe in a certain way. But in my middle years, I kind of drifted, and other things took center stage. At that point, I realized I needed something more if I was going to survive. A closer investigation of the Gospels, of the story, of the whole piece, was demanded of me. That's when the idea started to percolate inside my head. I began to see it realistically, re-creating it in my own mind so that it would make sense for me, so I could relate to it. That's what I want to put on the screen. Q: So many movies about the life of Christ have already been made.Why make another one? Gibson: I don't think other films have tapped into the real force of this story. I mean, have you seen any of the others? They are either inaccurate in their history, or they suffer from bad music or bad hair. This film will tell the passion of Jesus Christ just the way it happened. It's like traveling back in time and watching the events unfold exactly as they occurred. Q: How can you be sure that your version is so accurate? Gibson: We've done the research. I'm telling the story as the Bible tells it. I think the story, as it really happened, speaks for itself. The Gospel is a complete script, and that's what we're filming. Q: This seems like a switch from the usual Mel Gibson productions. Your specialty is action, adventure and romance. What made you decide to do a religious film?   Gibson: I'm doing what I've always done: telling stories I think are important in the language I speak best: film. I think most great stories are hero stories. People want to reach out and grab at something higher, and vicariously live through heroism, and lift their spirit that way. There is no greater hero story than this one -- about the greatest love one can have, which is to lay down one's life for someone. The Passion is the biggest adventure story of all time. I think it's the biggest love-story of all time; God becoming man and men killing God -- if that's not action, no thing is. Q: Who will want to see a film like this? Gibson: I think everyone will. The story has inspired art, culture, behavior, governments, kingdoms, countries -- it has influenced the world in more ways than you can imagine. It's a pivotal event in history that has made us what we are today. Believers and nonbelievers alike, we have all been affected by it. So many people are searching for meaning in life, asking themselves a lot of questions. They'll come looking for answers. Some will find them, some won't.   © 2003 ZENIT.  Used by Permission.  http://www.zenit.org/english/.   Related Reading: Gibson's Passion for Jesus, by Holly McClure, The Dove Foundation. Back to Top

Mel and the Vinegar Boy   Mike Bacarella is an actor based in Chicago.  His face is recognizable as a character actor in numerous features, and his voice is heard periodically on the radio drama "Unshackled." Also a writer, Bacarella produced a CD drama called "Vinegar Boy" for Moody Broadcasting.  In his search to expand acting possibilities in California, Bacarella used "Vinegar Boy" as part of his promotional package. The CD took him places only The Lord could map out.   By Mike Bacarella Work is very slow so when I got a voice over job I was overjoyed and thankful. We are re-inventing the whole process of looking for work.  We are proceeding slow.  But I am learning a great deal. Seek, Knock, Ask. Here is an example. At the session the producer told us he was going to Rome to meet with Mel Gibson to pitch a film idea.  This producer's star in his film is the same actor Gibson chose to play Jesus in his movie "The Passion" (Jim Caviezel). I have heard Gibson is a Believer. Later the next week I called the producer and simply asked him to take a copy of "Vinegar Boy," a project that I helped adapt to radio, and give it to Gibson since it concerns the Passion. I put it in the folder that had my picture and resume. ("Vinegar Boy" is the fictional name of the person providing the gall that was given to the crucified.  He was an abandoned child adopted by the Roman garrison stationed in Jerusalem at the time of our Lord.  He meets the key people in the Gospel.) Two days later Gibson had "Vinegar Boy" in hand.  I don't know what he will do with it, but it is amazing how it was so simple to get this into his hands. I believe that event was God-guided. A simple story produced by the faithful in the recording studio of Moody's WMBI one year ago (available at the Moody Bookstore), and into  the hands of a mega-financed cinema production. Tied with our common Christian belief.  Amazing grace isn't it?  There is no report what became of the connection.  Bacarella hasn't filmed in Gibson's movie,  but making the connection has planted seeds.  Ask, seek knock.  Back to Top

Guest Column   Catholic Writing:  Fellowship of the Pens    by TIM DRAKE  Executive Editor, Catholic.net

(One of a Series of Theatre-related writings which have appeared in other media. Used by Permission.)

It was a distinct gathering for such a time as this. They gathered from far and wide, 250 strong -- poets, playwrights, journalists, bloggers, novelists, and all manner of Catholic writers -- to wrestle with the questions, "What is Catholic writing?" and "What makes a Catholic writer?"

The group met on the campus of the Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, for the first of what many hope will become an annual Catholic Writer's Festival. The festival served several purposes. It served as an opportunity for writers of all types to learn more about their craft. It also served as a forum for writers to pitch ideas to editors and publishers. But perhaps, best of all, it served as a spiritual oasis -- an inspiring and affirming time for writers to connect with one another. 

David Craig, an English professor at FUS, said that, "We needed a weekend like this, not only to free our spiritual writing souls, but to know there are many others like us called to write and to use our talents to greater glorify His name."

It was common to hear conversations, being held in the hallways and on campus between the workshop sessions, on the long-going debate over Catholic writers and their work. "What are the merits of fiction?"  "What should be its purpose?" "How can we reach beyond the Catholic ghetto?"

Both screenwriter Barbara Nicolosi and novelist Ron Hansen emphasized the importance of, first, telling a great story. Hansen and Nicolosi argued that too many stories try too hard to proselytize at the expense of the story.

On the other side of the aisle, Marcus Grodi, fresh from writing his first novel, How Firm a Foundation, spoke of his zeal for souls as the driving force behind his book.

In addition, the conference afforded time to dwell upon the spiritual aspect of one's work, and to have a little fun. At the conference's opening, Dr. Regis Martin moderated a mock trial of Peter Jackson for his desecration of "The Lord of the Rings," and the conference concluded with a performance of Dr. Kazimierz Braun's play "Tamara L".

Some may wonder, does the festival signal a kind of Catholic Renaissance? It is too early to tell. Certainly, as Catholics, the present situation of the Church seems both perilous and uncertain. The Church struggles amidst a crisis of identity. Faced with a time where many are likely to be questioning, or even jettisoning, their faith, we realize that Catholic writers are needed now more than ever.

Professor and mystery writer, Dr. Ralph McInerny reminded participants what a slippery term “writer” is. It includes the biographer, the blogger, the self-published author, the poet, the playwright, the novelist, the apologist, and the journalist. McInerny brought to mind novelist Flannery O’Connor’s famous comment that, "the Catholic novelist doesn't have to be a saint; he doesn't even have to be a Catholic; he does, unfortunately, have to be a novelist."

As to the original questions posed by the conference, there are perhaps as many answers as there are types of writers.  Jacques Maritain once said that, "it is not easy to be a Catholic, and it is not easy to be a writer. To be a Catholic writer is doubly difficult."

Maritain further went on to say that the Catholic artist is one fully dedicated to the requirements of his art and the beauty of his work. This then is what the Catholic writer is -- one fully dedicated to the good, the beautiful, and the true.

Catholic writers might like to think that they are alone in the world. The beauty of the Catholic Writer's Festival was that it showed otherwise.

For, recall that approximately 70 years ago, a small group of writers gathered together in Oxford's college rooms for readings, criticisms of their work, and general conversation. That group, known as The Inklings, included some of the finest writers of the past century --  C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Charles Williams. Arguably, those writers, both in union with one another, and independently, created some of the past century's greatest work.

Perhaps, the Catholic Writer's Festival can serve as the impetus for the creation of the Inklings of the new millennium. Share your comment.

Tim Drake is the editor of Saints of the Jubilee. He resides in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

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Walking in His Purpose

By Cicely V. Wilson

Living Word Christian Center

For many Believing artists there comes a time when questions arise whether or not a life in the theatre and a life for Christ are compatible.  This choice can be particularly harrowing for college students who have a difficult enough time choosing a major and fitting in socially, much less adding faith in Christ to the campus and theatre cultures.  Cicely Wilson faced such a dilemma.  This is her story.

Can you imagine having to choose basically another passion, career, and desire all in the span of two weeks or else get kicked out of college?

Who chooses a passion anyway?

I accepted Christ at the age of 12, but I've known for as long as I can remember that I've wanted to be an actress.  My dreams as a little kid were growing up and becoming a famous Hollywood actress. It wasn't for the money it was for the sheer pleasure of doing something I love. I come from a family of artists so this came natural to me.  There was nothing else in the whole world that brought me more joy than "acting out" in front of an audience, or just by myself.  That's how I knew it was true.  When I got saved, I still wanted to pursue this dream.

I hadn't known anything about living holy, a righteous life, or anything like that.  As I grew into my relationship with Christ and desiring more of Him, I began to consider Him when I made decisions.

Because of this, anything I would do acting wise, I made sure that it didn't compromise my morals as a child of God. I didn't want to be a part of a production with cursing, sexual explicitness, etc. I didn't want to be made to feel uncomfortable in my acting and still live for God.

As time neared for me to make a decision as to what I would study in college, this suddenly became the hardest decision of my life.  What had once been something I knew and loved all my life without a doubt, now made me think twice about pursuing. You see, the enemy began to plant seeds of compromise.

He convinced me that if I majored in theatre I would weaken in my relationship with God and become hypocritical.   The Enemy got his way, convincing me NOT to major in theatre.  I was stunned, baffled, and hurting terribly as to what I felt I had to do in order to please God, yet my decision had been made, I would not study theatre.

Now what? 

The first two years of college were torture.  Not only was I not doing what I always wanted to do, but I also didn't know what I would study once my general education classes were over.  You must understand, I never considered doing anything else with my life than acting, nor did I want to do anything else more than it!

When it was time to declare a major, all I could do was cry.  All I could think about was going home. I didn't want to go through this anymore, I just kept saying while crying, "I wanna' go home."  You could say that I was experiencing somewhat of a nervous breakdown because I did not have a PLAN B!  The devil did not give me a PLAN B, he never does.  He just THOUGHT he would ruin the FIRST plan God had for me.

For the next two weeks, this is how my major-selecting process went:

VOICE

Ok, Cicely, what else can you do? There must be something else you can do that you enjoy.

 

ME

Well, English was my favorite subject in school and I'm really good in it, so maybe I'll study English.

 

VOICE

Yeah, English.

 

ME

And, I like kids, too; so maybe I could teach English to kids and become a teacher.

 

VOICE

What kind of kids do I like? 

 

ME

I like older kids, so it would have to be in the high school level.

 

VOICE

That's it! A high school English teacher.

 

ME

That's what I'll be! I'll become a high school English teacher.

I hadn't quite matured in God yet, and still felt that this was the only way it could be done, so I did what I felt I had to do.

In my third year of college, the Lord began to speak with me.  He told me that it was Him that put the gift of acting and the arts in me, not the devil. So, if the devil never gave it to me in the first place, who was he to tell me what I could and could not do with it?  God was right! (duh!)  God renewed my mind to realize that it was very possible to be pleasing to Him and pursue a career in acting.  God assured me that I could still live holy, act, and did not have to be miserable doing something I never wanted to do.

After this, I tried declaring a double major in theatre and education. Unfortunately, my university did not allow majors in two separate colleges. 

"Now what?"

Not to fear.  The Lord began opening acting, directing, and writing opportunities in my Christian youth group, Faith, while at school.

After graduating, I still desired more. I wanted to go to Tisch School of the Performing Arts at NYU.  At the same time, I thought getting a job would be a novel idea seeing as though I had so many bills to pay.  The job won and I began my teaching career.  But all wasn't loss.  I told the Lord that since I was "doing the job thing" that He had to provide another outlet of artistic opportunity where I would be.

God introduced me to someone who told me about Allen Edge and the Christian Artist Network. With all humility, Allen convinced me that I wasn't crazy and what God has placed in me as an artist is a mandate, not a suggestion. 

Since then, I've ministered in several venues, mostly Transitions Edge Productions, through acting, dance, and singing.  My ultimate vision, which God gave me at the age of 18, is to be a full-time evangelist who ministers the gospel through theatrical production with a staffed theatre troupe on a local and international level.

I am 25 years old.  The devil was proven to be a liar, God is still doing mighty things, and the best is yet to come.

"The good work which God has begun in you, He will continue, perform, and complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6)

Cecily Wilson is an actress and teacher involved with The Anointed Harvesters drama ministry of Living Word Christian Center, Forest Park, Il.

Tell us how drama has made a difference in your ministry.

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 Excerpts of thoughts, ideas and prayers from affiliates of CTN.  For full details visit the newsletter links.

The Ultimate Biography

By Martha Bolton

The Martha Bolton Newsletter

He was born in a stable in Bethlehem and was confounding temple scholars by the time he was twelve.

Though royalty, He never demanded special treatment.  No one rolled out the red carpet for Him to walk on, but He did walk on water.

Only one parade was ever held in His honor, but a week later the cheering crowd led Him down the very same street to crucify Him.

They didn't give Him an Oscar, an Emmy, or a Grammy, but they did give Him a crown of thorns.

He wasn't valedictorian of His class, but He was victor over death, hell, and the grave. 

He didn't win a Nobel Peace Prize, but He is the Prince of Peace.

You won't find His face on the cover of weekly newsmagazines, but the book written about Him is the biggest seller in history.

He's not the Man of the Hour, the Man of the Year, or the Man of the Century.  He's the Man of Eternity.

You won't find Him listed in Who's Who, but He is listed in I Am and He's the only entry.

He never ran for senator, governor, or president, but He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

His name is Jesus.

Upcoming New Releases:  "The Official Grad Book" -- a gift book for graduates; "Who Put Lemons in My Fruit of the Spirit?" -- A youth devotional.

Author of over 40 books which include children's entertainment, youth devotionals, musicals, comedy essays, dramatic sketches, marriage, family and relationships.  Staff writer for Bob Hope for over fifteen years, as well as writing for Phyllis Diller, Ann Jillian, Jeff Allen, Mark Lowry, Kathy Troccoli

For information concerning Martha Bolton's recent book releases, tours and upcoming appearances of Martha and The Cafeteria Lady, visit www.marthabolton.com.

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Dancing for Native Salvation

By Richard Twiss

"Smoke Signals" of Wiconi International

I have finalized plans for our "Dancing Our Prayers National Evangelism Tour" in Peru, next July 30-August 18. I have 28 confirmed members for our team. There is no doubt in my mind that we will see thousands come to faith in Jesus Christ during our city-wide stadium events in Lima and Cusco and then dividing into five smaller teams to minister in five different tribal regions. God has called First Nations people to be a part of reaping the global harvest of souls and to help shape the course of nations for Jesus Christ! This is our Kairos time in the unfolding of God's eternal purposes that He has laid up for us from the foundation of the world.

The plans are being finalized for the five tribal regional outreaches. It is remarkable how the word has spread in the jungle areas of our teams coming. Each of the regional coordinators are saying there will be thousands at each area who are coming. Forty percent of Peru's population is Native. These will be five-day outreaches consisting of cultural evangelism during the evenings and discipleship and pastoral training in the days, which they say is their greatest need.

Please pray for divine favor, wisdom and provision during our time there. Also continue to keep our budget before the Lord -- (My budget for this twenty-one day nationwide tour with 32 First Nations pastors, evangelists, and preachers, who are all skilled traditional dancers and singers, is $125,000 dollars.  I am looking for 32 churches, organizations or sponsors who will underwrite each team member for $2500. In addition I am seeking various foundations and individuals who can contribute toward the various outreach expenses.)   Please pray for God's protection, health, grace and anointing for us, as we seek to go about our Father's business with spiritual authority and dunamis power!  Also, as my knee is giving me big problems popping out of joint, so pray for healing.

Smoke Signals, the newsletter of Wiconi International, a ministry whose vision includes "organizing and leading international Christian Native Dance and Performing Arts Ministry Team(s), as a means of taking advantage of the international fascination with Native North Americans for the purpose of communicating the Gospel."

Subscribe: wiconi-subscribe@MyInJesus.com Information:  www.wiconi.com

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God's Hand through the (Ice) Storm

By Mickie O'Donnell

Director, Children's Ministries of America

We just never know what will happen when we plan a one-day event in a small town in the middle of what some would consider (nowhere) - actually we had  the time of our life in Traer, Iowa.

In spite of the sleet storm the night before, the sun was shinning and even though it was a bit nippy, we walked around the neighborhood and enjoyed the seminar day.  Over 120 people from all over Iowa attended.

Pastor Sheryl Campbell of the Ripley United Church of Christ for organizing and coordinated the event which rotated sessions between Ripley, the Traer Methodist Church, and the Traer United Presbyterian Church.

One of the highlights was meeting 15 great young men and women ages, 10-16, who are part of a traveling team of drummers called Sheltered Reality.  Sheltered Reality puts on concerts at schools in Iowa to educate kids and adults about homelessness in the US.  Their mission is to encourage other kids to reach out and change their community's homeless situation.  To find out more about this ministry visit their website at www.sheltered-reality.org.

Children's Ministries of America, a ministry dedicated to life-long learning through multi-dimensional education models "to make ministry with children and their families a priority for Christians everywhere. While churches, denominations, and ministry networks through National and Regional conferences and area training."

Subscribe:  CMA Newsletter childmin@earthlink.net.

Information:  http://www.childrensministries.org/

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A Few Words on Copyright

By Jeff Smith

Founder, Salt & Light Ministries

Recently, we have received awesome reports of God Rod teams who are holding seminars and workshops in their area and teaching the God Rods. We are so excited God is using this form of interpretive movement ministry to spread the gospel.

We do, however, want to make you aware that all of the choreography on the videos is protected by copyright law. In order to perform any of our choreography, you must first purchase a video. This is also true for the groups who attend your church trainings and seminars. They must also purchase a copy of the training video prior to performance in order to comply with the copyright law.

If you let us know before your conference, we will be glad to send you promotional literature and brochures to help your attendees purchase videos of their own.

Information:  www.saltandlightmin.org
Email jeff@saltandlightmin.org; saltandlightmin@juno.com

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From: McNAIR Mail, by McNair Wilson: "This issue was written over a late breakfast at Rockridge Cafe on Oakland¹s ever-tony College Ave. ³Try the Alaskan scrambler.² (Fresh tea bag is free!) The music coming from the kitchen was reggae, mon." Wilson has released his new book, "Raised In Captivity: A Memoir of a Life Long Churchaholic," 22 stories of growing up in a religiously addicted family, and includes sketches from Wilson's book, "As I was ³Drawing in Church²."  For information about orders and special gifts, visit www.McNairWilson.com -- "Any territory which we abandon, Satan will fill. That has happened in the performing arts," writes Grace Wiebe in Ethnic Worship & Arts Focus Newsletter.  "Modern drama was born as a form of evangelism--the Church created morality plays to teach the truths of scripture to an illiterate public. We must recapture drama and every form of entertainment for Jesus, seeking Him for creative ways to show the world who He is." Ethnic Worship &Arts Focus newsletter is a regular email update of events, resources, people and issues pertaining to the utilization of varying degrees of ethnic music and the arts/media/recording in church planting among the unreached, with a focus on the Muslim world.  <gracew@idmail.com>

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 Meeting, Greeting and Worshipping

No one wanted to leave.

"This is the best one we've had," said Allen Edge, almost three hours after the appointed finishing time.

Edge, founder of Transitions Edge Productions and the Christian Artists Network, was speaking of the monthly networking fellowship of CAN which featured a Meet-and-Greet fellowship with the Christian Theatre Network.

Edge was speaking 'round midnight, almost three hours after the appointed finishing time.  Although many of the attendees departed, a good 15 remained, turning an evening of card swapping and project updating into an extensive prayer, testimony and worship service.

There were approximately 30 visitors to the networking session, most of whom had never attended.  Artists came from the far southside of Chicago, and the northwest and western suburbs to share at the TLN Studios in the city's near west Loop.  In addition to CAN and CTN members, attendees included representatives of the Chicago Fellowship of International Christian Visual Media (ICVM/Chicago), the Scribes Forum and the Christian Poets Society.  For the most part, the Meet-and-Greet was the first time each of these fellowships learned of each other.  Most were surprised and excited by the level and variety of artistic activity in the Believing community.

The crowd received an example of the variety via a variety program coordinated and hosted by Edge, who weaved his deft and provocative standup comedy between a devotional by CTN co-founder Michael Edgar Myers, poetry by Lena Edwards and Dr. Groove of CPS, a dramatic monologue by Cicely "Triple Threat" Wilson, and music by Latanya Jael.

As the program neared its appointed close, personal announcement and questions turned into testimonies, testimonies into prayer requests ranging from ministry help to assistance in school to personnel problems at work, and individual requests evolved into a corporate prayer and worship chorus circle.

Those who left -- both at the appointed time and the later hour -- departed with a sense of mission and encouragement about the Lord's use of artistic endeavors.

To help coordinate a Meet-and-Greet, contact mem@christiantheatrenetwork.org.

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CITA Forms Local Chapters

In a major restructuring of its organization, after diligent research and discussion, Christians in Theatre Arts (CITA) has formed chapter memberships.

"We are embarking on an exciting new phase in order to more effectively serve the networking needs of our membership," says executive director Dale Savidge.  "Not since the early years of CITA have we spent so much energy and time on our mission and on how our leadership structures advance that mission. We believe this new initiative will greatly increase the effectiveness of CITA and greatly expand the number of Christian artists in our network."

CITA's national and regional participation has grown since its inception in the mid-1980s.  In 2000, nearly 1500 people attended CITA conferences.  However, CITA directors and members long-sought more face-to-face interaction, especially between conferences, in smaller settings, particularly in changing economic times.  "CITA recognizes not all of its members have the resources to travel to these conferences, so, means of regular, local networking has been devised," says the charter.

Among the difficulties in creating chapters was sensitivity to the needs of the cross-section of Christian artists, such as denominational, academic, demographic, pastoral, professional, community.  To investigate those needs, CITA's board conferred with various arts organizations, including CTN, to shape its new structure.

"Diversity can, and often does, breed tension and conflict," Savidge says. "But the Christian response to diversity is celebration, because it is diversity in the body of Christ that makes it effective. In CITA we celebrate our diversity, not just by denomination but by venue and discipline.

"We are now prepared to offer networking, with the goal of encouraging and equipping Christians in the theatre arts, at every level."

Information:  http://www.cita.org/.

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Film Commentary Forum Added

The most active, rapidly growing networking connection in the past year has been the Chicago chapter of International Christian Visual Media.

Guided by Guy Silagi of Storie Art, ICVM/Chicago has provided training and job opportunities for independent filmmakers and actors through monthly meetings, discussions and interaction with the commercial film industry veterans. 

ICVM has also increased public awareness of Christian-themed films – fostering attendance of limited-release movies, and pointing out gospel messages in mainstream films.

As a result of this growth, CTN has added Christian Film Reviews and Commentary to our Recommendations Forum, featuring summaries from website critics and individuals.

A secondary, but more poignant result of IVCM'S presence is encouraging discipleship disciples in the film community, sometimes not without controversy.

Among the networking organizations in which Silagi encourages participation is Chicago Community Cinema, whose constituency is does not entirely consist of Believers, nor are the films or locations of the screenings always comfortable to a Believer's taste.  All the more reason for Silagi's recommendation.

"One of our members (wanted me) to give explanation why I am sending forwards from CCC," writes Silagi, who prolifically and judiciously passes on pertinent networking e-mails.

"I send you this information to let you know one type of film venue offered in the Chicagoland area. THIS VENUE PROVIDES A GREAT PLACE TO BE SALT AND LIGHT IN THE CHICAGO AREA.  It can also provide opportunities for people to get contacts in the industry."

The cap and boldface punctuation are Silagi's, emphasizing a grander purpose for movie-making, leaving the choice to the participants.  "I have not reviewed any of the films that are shown at CCC.  I do not know what the content is on or the quality of the content.  I am not endorsing the films," he says.  "Please attend CCC events if you're being called to be SALT AND LIGHT in the industry. If you are not interested please don't attend."

The issue of the lion's den of film aside, courtesy of ICVM, here are some websites which focus on Christian films, or Christian themes in commercial films.

CHILDCARE ACTION PROJECT -- http://www.capalert.com/ -- Commentary site to help parents assess films for their families.  "Dedicated to investigating and reporting on the impact of the American culture on the integrity, self respect, and coping skills of youth, and inherently on family unity and values."  Includes comments on  over 700 films.

 

CHRISTIAN MOVIES.COM -- http://www.christianmovies.com -- Distributor of "inspirational, evangelistic and spiritually challenging movies for your homes, schools and church groups."

 

CLOUD TEN PICTURES -- http://www.cloudtenpictures.com -- Website of studio which has produced the Left Behind movie series features news, chat rooms and information of its eight other films focusing on the End times.

HOLLYWOOD JESUS -- http://www.hollywoodjesus.com/aboutus.htm  -- Reviews movies, includes interviews and commentary, of current and classic films -- not just Christian cinema. "Pop culture from a spiritual point of view," hosted by David Bruce.  "Everyone welcome. Hindus, Jews, Christians, Wiccans, Muslims, Atheist, Agnostics, Gay, Straight, Geeks, Freaks.  Come in. Enjoy. Post your views!"

 

IFP --  http://www.ifp.org/nav/about.php -- "Not-for-profit service organization dedicated to providing resources, information and avenues of communication for its members: independent filmmakers, industry professionals and independent film enthusiasts."

MOVIEGUIDE -- http://www.movieguide.org -- Published by the Christian Film & Television Commission.   "Dedicated to redeeming the values of Hollywood by informing parents about today's movies and entertainment and by showing media executives and artists that family-friendly and even Christian-friendly movies do best at the box office year in and year out."

 

REEL FAITH – http://www.faithandvalues.com/channels/reelfaith.asp.--Hosted by Faith and Values.com. News, movie reviews, and information on the latest films, DVDs and videos from a faith-based perspective.   

 

TIME CHANGER THE MOVIE -- http://www.timechangermovie.com/ -- Discussions and evangelical outreach opportunities for the film directed by Rich Cristiano.

Related Readings:  Interview with Tom Shadyac, director of "Bruce Almighty," from Hollywood Jesus; Jesus Shall Reign, from Chuck Colson's Breakpoint.

Related Forum Issues: Technical Needs, Upcoming Events

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Ministries You Should Know 

"Sowing Seeds" Across Religions

 Mention a Christian television show to a layman, the images that most often come to mind are a pompadoured preacher, a sweat-dreening choir, an investigative news expose, or a prime time series that talks about God, but rarely about Christ.

You may see some of these visions on "Sowing Seeds," but stopping the remote and closer viewing often unveils deeper matters of faith.  The Emmy Award-winning program, hosted by and developed by Robert Jordan, an anchor with cable superstation WGN, reports stories from a variety of faith perspectives under its parent company, Faith & Values Media.

Faith & Values is a service of the National Interfaith Cable Coalition, the nation's largest coalition of Christian and Jewish faith groups dedicated to media.  The coalition represents 31 member faith groups representing 200,000 congregations and 120 million congregants. 

While not solely evangelical, "Sowing Seeds" frequently features ministries that fearlessly present the gospel.  The features are packaged in a four-story, 30-minute format that allows viewers to discover other faiths and decide how they relate to ministries of Christ.  Stories are shown Sundays on the Hallmark Network, occasionally repeated, archived on the "Sowing Seeds" website, and frequently feature theatre ministries.

Here is a smattering of theatre-related stories, listed by episode, which have appeared on Sowing Seeds in the past year.

 Willow Creek Community Church (Episode 1):  A 'mega-church' where Sunday services draw a mega 16-17,000 people and ministries include building houses, donating cars, and a vibrant, far-reaching arts outreach for the post-modern generation.  http://www.sowingseeds.tv/ep01_willowcreek.jsp

 

The Rubber Chicken Guy (Episode 14):  The alter ego of David Duchemin, who combines juggling, sleight of hand, and comedy while presenting the gospel throughout Canada.  http://www.sowingseeds.tv/ep14_chicken.jsp

 

The Garden (Episode 14):  Feature on a media-savvy ministry in Indianapolis which includes film clips and original scenes as while conducting its services in a metropolitan dinner theatre.  http://www.sowingseeds.tv/ep14_garden.jsp

 

Helping the disabled succeed (Episode 15) – In Belfast, ME, Brother Rick Curry’s one-of-a-kind National Theatre Workshop of the Handicapped teaches the arts to a very unique group of teens. http://www.sowingseeds.tv/ep15_disabled.jsp

 

Jesters for Jesus (Episode 17):  Through clowning, the Jesters for Jesus use amusing and whimsical scenes to educate the younger generation of Sagemont Baptist Church in Houston, Tx. http://www.sowingseeds.tv/ep17_jesters.jsp

 

The Mime Boyz (Episode 20):  A Florida-based mime troupe which has received nationwide acclaim for its interpretive movement. http://www.sowingseeds.tv/ep20_mimeboyz.jsp.

Ministries appearing in the series are often suggested by viewers.  To view any of these stories or for more information on these or any Sowing Seeds episodes, and to submit your story suggestions, log on to www.sowingseeds.tv

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Section 5:  Ministry Helps

Playwrighter's Block 

Marketing Your Script

Believing artists are encouraged to step into the community of non-Believers to be salt and light, and to learn.  Such an opportunity occurred when Chicago Dramatists, a theatre dedicated to development of playwrights, conducted a day-long marketing seminar.

The 21 assembled playwrights from throughout the country not only included individuals pursuing professional careers, but also writers from Indiana, Florida, Missouri and Illinois whose passion includes Ministry Theatre.

Russ Tutterow, artistic director of Chicago Dramatists, provided abundant advice for playwrights  about writing and marketing their plays.  Highlights of Tutterow's talk, and suggestions for resource material, will be excerpted in The Chronicles.

Tutterow's primary point:  The most important element of playwriting is getting the play read, through staged readings, private readings or productions.  Get as many readings and productions as possible before pursing publication.

"You have to take the initiative," he says.  "You've got to take advantage of opportunities.  You've got to make it happen for yourselves."

'A lot of writers dread the marketing aspect. You're really doing it all the time.  You have the opportunity to do it.  Theatre is really a collaborative art.  You just can't stay at home.  You have to talk to people about what you're doing.  Activity breeds activity."

Here are action steps to "talk" to people take between writing scenes.