MUCH DIVIDES US …
… MORE UNITES US
COVER STORY—Ever since Dr. Wayne Baker published United America, detailing 10 core values shared by Americans, we need to keep reminding ourselves what his research shows us: Unity is possible! In 2016, voices of division are louder than ever—and tragic incidents of violence break out every day.
This week, we ask readers to consider two very personal columns. Both of these stories are asking: Can we talk about our divisions? And, where are signs of unity emerging around us every day?
First, author and columnist Rodney Curtis writes about the unending cycle of gun violence in America. Dangerous conflicts are real; but solutions seem elusive. Rodney simply shares from his heart about his family’s brushes with gun violence—and calls all of us to renewed discussion about solutions. However you feel about guns and regulation of gun ownership, read Rodney’s call to a fresh discussion. Whatever your point of view, conversation is possible.
Second, Editor David Crumm writes about the inspiration of a wedding that involved several of the staff members at our publishing house. Ironically, the wedding took place in tiny, historic Senoia, Georgia—the home of the AMC hit series Walking Dead. This personal column reminds us that, in the midst of anxiety, anger and violence, we need to celebrate the inspiring signs of unity unfolding all around us.
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GENERATION
TO
GENERATION
GODSIGNS—When the “Woman of 1,000 Voices” died, her family focused on the memories they would carry of this amazing “grandma” who had such a vibrant career as a performer. How would this woman be remembered? Through stories, of course. Then, her granddaughter happened to examine a drawing hanging on a wall and … that’s the GodSign in this week’s column from Suzy Farbman.
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HOLIDAYS & MILESTONES
Don’t miss a date! Remember www.InterfaithHolidays.org, our master calendar.
ANCIENT HARVEST FESTIVAL—Jewish communities around the world mark Shavuot, an ancient tradition marking a grain harvest in Israel. More importantly, Shavuot marks the occasion where a wandering tribe became a nation governed by God’s commandments. FeedTheSpirit columnist Bobbie Lewis writes about the holiday—and includes a recipe for broccoli-cheese salad.
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JUNETEENTH—Now, the holiday marking the end of slavery in the U.S. is officially known as Juneteenth Independence Day. The holiday began in Texas, where U.S. military finally enforced the Emancipation Proclamation months after the end of the war. Today, the holiday has spread nationwide.
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PLAN NOW FOR FATHER’S DAY! Read Stephanie Fenton’s column on the holiday and you’ll find the roots of this century-old observance began in church—following the model of Mother’s Day, which also began in church.
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FILM, FAITH & CULTURE
LOVE MOVIES? Enjoy all of the free resources from Ed McNulty’s faith-and-film website: www.VisualParables.org
Among Ed’s recent free reviews are …
- THE MEDDLER—Susan Sarandon is delightful, says Ed McNulty. (4.5 out of 5 stars)
- ROOTS—Well worth watching, writes Ed. This remake of the 1977 version of Alex Haley’s groundbreaking book is a stirring reminder of the darker side of so-called “Western Civilization.” While the first run of the new Roots already has aired—the series will continue to be available in various forms.
- Pelé: BIRTH OF A LEGEND—This week, ReadTheSpirit has a special global focus and our film critic adds news about this stirring drama about the legendary Brazilian soccer player. Ed chides other critics who have dismissed the film as yet another formulaic Rocky story. He says the film will touch your heart and gives it 4 out of 5 stars.
- ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS—It’s a “mish-mash” of a plot that strays far from the classic story. Ed gives this fanciful film 3.5 stars.
- THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY—You’ll have to look for this unusual biographical drama about mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Like other critics, Ed recommends that viewers seek out this film. (4 stars)
- FRANCOFONIA—After the amazing Russian Ark, fans of director Alexandr Sokurov watch for his newest films and seek them out. In Francofonia he spins a tale within another museum—and, if you can’t find the film in theaters, it is coming soon to DVD and Blu-ray. (4.5 out of 5 stars).
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