Media Missions

Two wealthy cities present a mission field like no other; the ideologies they produce shape people's beliefs and attitudes all over the world. The brave Christians who choose this mission field don't practice medicine or teach English; instead, they use their creative talents to inspire individuals and influence cultures. New York City and Los Angeles offer an unparalleled opportunity for Christians to engage secular media — including television, radio, magazines, newspapers, movies and the Interne — and change the world.

Parents play a crucial role in equipping children for this mission field by encouraging creative talents. Karen Covell, a producer of TV specials and documentaries, is dedicated to nurturing her two sons' artistic talents in acting and directing. Covell, also the founder and director of the Hollywood Prayer Network, suggests that Christian parents need to overcome their reluctance to consider Tinsel Town a legitimate mission field.

"Parents are so willing to support kids who want to go to China, but they turn their backs on kids who want to go to Hollywood. I don't see a difference," she says. "They're following a path that can make an eternal difference."

D.T. Slouffman has successfully followed that path. He lives in New York and travels the world producing sports and reality TV. What led him to this field? "My mother!" he says. When Slouffman couldn't decide on a college major, his mother reminded him of his strengths in communication and writing. She suggested a career in radio or television.

Reel missionaries

Slouffman, who earned an Emmy in 2007 for "Inside the NBA," uses his talent to communicate redemptive messages. "Whether I'm the producer, director or writer, I always work for those things that are going to encourage and promote hope."

One such story, which he produced for the TLC reality series "Rebuilt," highlighted 9-year-old Jessica, whose adoptive mother worked relentlessly with doctors to get her daughter fitted with prosthetic legs. The mother was a devout Christian who had adopted eight other children, and Slouffman featured a scene showing the family praying around the dinner table.

"It's a scene that probably nine out of 10 producers would have cut. I didn't write a line saying, 'Phyllis is a Christian, so she will make sure her daughter gets legs because it's what Jesus would do.' I didn't need to. Everything that needs to be said is in her actions."

Slouffman believes that through telling stories like Jessica's, viewers will be encouraged to pursue hope and ultimately find the source of truth behind it.

What can Mom and Dad do?

When kids do sense a media calling on their lives, parents can help them prepare by enrolling them in classes that develop their skills. "We don't want to settle for spirituality without quality of experience or training," Covell says.

While training is important, parents also need to remember that success doesn't ultimately depend on their children's abilities, but on Christ's power in their lives. That's why it's crucial for parents to pray with their kids and nurture their faith. "We tell our kids the bottom line is, if you're not strong with the Lord, you're not going to make it," Covell says.

By instilling a strong faith and aiding the development of artistic talents, parents can empower their children to head into this unique mission field.