I had the privilege of attending the San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival and Academy this year and saw firsthand how Vision Forum is stepping up to fill a vital need right now. Their vision is much greater and far reaching than most people realize.

The digitalization of media is bringing a massive flood of new young filmmakers on the scene. My deep concern has been that they can afford the equipment, but may not be morally responsible or theologically grounded enough to use this powerful influence for good. This festival and academy are exactly what is needed right now to steer them toward producing films that are professional, commercially viable, and also fruitful for eternity.

A close friend of mine, who graduated Valedictorian from a well known film school, attended the academy and festival with me. After the week, he commented how much he learned at the academy and how much more honorable and classy the festival was than others he had attended in the past. But more than that, he left with a clearer vision to use his skills for the glory of God rather than for leading others into decadence and vanity.

I believe that decades from now, we will see filmmakers who are changing the world who will undoubtedly state that this festival and academy was what God used to help ground them and prepare them for long term success.

Stephen Kendrick