Part of the vision of independent Christian filmmaking is righteous cultural influence within the context of a family vision of victory. That is why each of our faculty (Botkin, Carpenter, Rasmussen) is a home educator and faithful father who delights in taking opportunity to have his sons beside him when he is performing his craft. These sons are not mere spectators. They are benefiting from the ancient Hebraic philosophy of walk-along, talk-along, father-to-son discipleship. In the process they become contributing, productive members of one of God’s most important vehicles for cultural influence and evangelism—the Christian family.
Several participants at the 2006 Christian Filmmakers Academy mentioned that the most valuable teaching tool was observing the professionals work along side their children. Above, two of David Rasmussen’s three sons prepare fixtures for a discussion on lighting.
Benjamin Botkin assists his father in a special presentation dedicated to analyzing motion picture soundtracks. Benjamin is a composer and gifted performer who simulated silent movie themes and musical motifs on the key board. Benjamin is one of seven children the Lord has given to Geoff and Victoria.
Film producer Ken Carpenter takes a call with two of his eight children beside him.
My eldest son Joshua assists me and the speakers in a demonstration of proper lighting and interview technique.
My son Justice assists me in giving a diploma to Geoff’s daughter Elizabeth Botkin.
It is simply impossible for any of us fathers who enjoy the privilege of having our children beside us to communicate the blessing, the joy, the honor of doing the work of the Lord with the sons and daughters which the Lord has given to us. Thank the Lord for our sons and daughters. Thank the Lord for the blessings, authority, and opportunities he gives to the Christian household.