I finally had some extended free time this weekend because of my b-day so I was able to watch several movies that have been on my list for a while. Among them, Catch a Fire, Water, and a documentary called Jesus Camp.
The film is about an Evangelical summer camp and the kids who attend it where among other things they are taught to become dedicated “Christian soldiers in God’s Army”. The film also follows youth pastor Becky Fischer who is the main organizer and leader of the camp. There are many words that can be used to describe her. The woman is in equal parts fanatic, delusional and insane.
The film focuses on several kids in particular and goes along with them as we get glimpses of their daily lives and also their participation in the camp. Their parents also get camera time and it is insightful to listen to the intolerance and ignorance that they convey to their sons and daughters.
The film also explores the close ties between the Christian right and the Republican party and specifically with George Bush. It also takes a brief look at the current state of American politics and religion.
It is truly repulsive and very saddening to watch all the events and people that are depicted in the film. Mixed in all of it is the irreparable harm that is being done to the children.
This documentary is chilling, shocking, and a must see.
March 11, 2007 at 10:47 pm |
I have seen it. I did’t see any harm being done to the children. One parent seemed a bit naive, and the radio commentary was an apparent liberal christian and somewhat misinformed. I agree eveyone should see it. Thanks for the post.
March 12, 2007 at 6:33 pm |
I have to disagree. I think there is alot of harm being done to those children in different ways with the end result being the complete loss of their innocence, taken from them by a small group of religious zealots.