HE ASKS: WHAT’S YOUR ‘RIOT’?
FOR ‘ORDINARY’ PEOPLE—This week, meet Justin Dillon who describes himself as first and foremost “ordinary”—in making his case that each of us has the capacity to change the world in these troubling times. Justin has become one of the world’s leading activists in combatting modern-day slavery and human trafficking.
Reading his new memoir of that global journey is like enjoying a cup of coffee with Justin—a rare and inspiring opportunity. Like a good friend, Justin tells us exciting stories while encouraging each of us to change the world for the better. He says, “I want people to know: There’s something inside of every one of us that wants to come out and it’s the way each of us can change the world.”
Why wait? Justin argues: That change can start with you—right now. Please read—and share with friends this cover story in which David Crumm interviews Justin and describes his fresh perspective on global change.
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ONE FAMILY’S STORY
GOD SIGNS—Our columnist Suzy Farbman concludes her three-part series about the remarkable adventures of Karen and Gil Raff—as they crisscross the country and connect in friendship and love. Part 3 is especially timely in this week featuring Justin Dillon as our Cover Story, because the Raff family also has found that values of service do indeed spread from one life to another. Just take a look at their family portrait that opens this final part of the series.
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HOLIDAYS!
Want to see all the holidays? Remember www.InterfaithHolidays.org.
LAMMAS … LUGHNASADH—Many families around the world celebrate some form of this harvest festival that usually involves sharing fresh-baked bread. Holidays columnist Stephanie Fenton also shares some great “extras,” including a video of Morris dancers and a tasty recipe for raisin bread. Yum!
TISHA B’AV—This annual day of fasting and reflection on the destruction of the two ancient Jewish temples in Jerusalem often passes, each year, with relatively little public notice in the U.S. This year, however, a painful disagreement about access to the Western Wall is focusing more eyes on the ancient city. Stephanie’s column explains the observance; and, she shares some news links to learn more about the current issue in the news.
RAKSHA BANDHAN—It’s a heart-warming festival that originated in India—an occasion for brothers and sisters. Stephanie’s column describes the custom of tying a “knot of affection” around the wrist on this holiday.
OBON—This international summertime celebration has roots in Japanese, Buddhist and Confucian culture, honoring ancestors through dance, lanterns and more. Stephanie’s story includes links to Do-It-Yourself lanterns.
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FAITH & FILM
ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published at VisualParables.org. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with complete study guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.
Among Ed’s latest free movie reviews are:
- MAUDIE—Look for this terrific film about the unusual life of the Nova Scotia folk artist Maud Lewis. (5 out of 5 stars)
- BEATRIZ AT DINNER—Ed writes, “The film’s fish-out-of-water story shines a spotlight on the darker side of American business practices.” He urges us not to miss it. (5 stars)
- BABY DRIVER—Ed describes this as “an unusual, fast-paced heist film with a romantic plot highlighted by some of the most stunning car chases ever caught on camera.” (5 stars)
- AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL—Want the latest on climate change from the point of view of real scientists? Catch this new documentary featuring Al Gore. (4 stars)
- A GHOST STORY—Are you a fan of Terence Malik’s artful cinematic reflections on life? Then you are likely to enjoy this tale from writer/director David Lowery. (4.5 stars)
- WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES—”Who is truly humane?” That’s the thought-provoking question swirling through the action and excitement of this movie, writes Ed McNulty (5 out of 5 stars)
- DUNKIRK—Director Christopher Nolan divides this epic into three areas: Land, Sea and Air. (4.5 stars)
- SPIDERMAN HOMECOMING—Ed uses words like exuberant and clever to praise this latest chapter in the Spiderman saga. (4.5 stars)
- THE EXCEPTION—Christopher Plummer is wonderful in this mix of historical elements, romance and suspense. (4.5 stars)
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