Jesus, please save me from your followers

I have another film to add to my recently-started list of films that a soon-to-be returning American should probably avoid: ‘Jesus Camp.’ It’s an amazing, powerful, fascinating, horrifying documentary about American Evangelical Christian children. Can people really use war metaphors for spreading the word of God? (The literal translation of the Serbian title of the film is ‘Jesus’ Soldiers.’) How can religious leaders instill such guilt, shame, and obedience in ten year olds (A lot of it seemed to be approaching emotional abuse?)? What sort of theology could call Harry Potter and far-from-scary ghost stories sinful? How can religion make no mention of love and justice in this world?

Thankfully, there was a brief respite from the frustration when a pre-scandal Ted Haggard preached hypocritically. I don’t feel good about taking pleasure in other’s downfall, but schadenfreude was a welcome change from outrage. (It was too bad that there was no mention of the scandal in the film; I am sure my fellow audience members would have loved to have known about it.)

While ‘Sicko’ left me feeling small and helpless, I left ‘Jesus Camp’ feeling energized. My future plans involve studying theology, working for ecumenism, and strengthening my own small church, a church will encourages questions, mixes rationality and faith, respects others' beliefs, and encourages members to seek justice in the world. I still have doubts and fears about this plan, but seeing this film reminded me of how much need there is.