EnVision - Torchlighters - May 2014

The Torchlighters Series: Impacting Lives Young and Old With Stories of Faith and Commitment

It was almost twelve years ago that Vision Video President, Bill Curtis gave a biography about missionary Glady's Aylward to his daughter Michelle. After reading the book, 10-year old Michelle exclaimed thoughtfully, "Dad, I know what I want to be when I grow up. I want to become a missionary!" The impact of Ayward's story on his daughter gave Curtis  an idea for a series of children's videos highlighting some of the outstanding  heroes of the Christian faith. The Torchlighters series was born!  Today there are 12 episodes in the series and lives both young and old continue to be touched by these true stories of faith, courage and commitment to Christ. The latest Torchlighters release, The Corrrie ten Boom Story, has been out for several months, and The John Wesley Story will release this fall.  Each Torchlighters episode contains, not only the 30 minute animated program for children, but also a 1 hour documentary about the subject. So, the entire family is engaged by the material.

The First Torchlighters Book

Now a new chapter in the Torchlighters story is underway. The first ever Torchlighters biography will be released at the end of this month. Corrie ten Boom is a 93 page illustrated biography written by Christian History Institute's own, Kaylena Radcliff, and illustrated by the Torchlighters production team. Like the video series, the new book is intended for children, ages 8-12.

According to the author, the book will be a resource for educators, including home-schoolers, who want a new tool to share a powerful, faith building story with their students. "Children will certainly be engaged by the action, the images, and the message of God’s power" said Radcliff.  "My goal when I first started was to learn as much about Corrie ten Boom as was possible. I began by reading primary sources, such as The Hiding Place, and then reading biographies about her. Once I felt that I knew Corrie and her story intimately, I tried to write the story of her life from her perspective," explained Radcliff who is now a first time author.

Radcliff went on to explain the importance of retelling Corrie ten Boom's story to a new generation. "Corrie’s story is important because in so many ways, it explores and displays the depths of God’s love, sovereignty, and incredible gift of forgiveness and salvation to all who would believe."  "I personally felt such a strong connection to Corrie because in all her writings, she was never afraid to bare her soul. It is impossible to read her story without feeling that this wise and courageous woman of faith is ministering to you specifically!"

Set Apart

Dawn Moore, CHI Editor, had a leading role in the Corrie ten Boom book project. She say's the new book is unique. "What sets our book apart from others is this: We've produced a genuine biography for children, that is just as engaging as the fictionalized biographies that are currently prevalent. The lively pictures and page-turning story line make this book a perfect next step for children who are ready for true stories. And we're not surprised that adults like it too!" say's Moore.

More Biographies to Follow?

The book will be released at the end of May and will be available on the Vision Video website and at other online sites. Will other Torchlighters biographies follow? "Absolutely!" says Radcliff. "We are currently in the beginning stages of our next biography on Jim Elliot.  I would love to have a companion biography for each episode, Lord willing, but for now we are approaching the series on a book-by-book basis."

Now that Radcliff has finished work on her first book, she is busy planning for another first. She and her husband, Tim, are expecting their first child any day now!

 

Vision Video Products in Lifeway Christian Stores

Lifeway Christian Stores which operates over 160 shop in two dozen U.S. states, will carry Vision Video products starting in June. Vision Video programs available from Lifeway will include drama. documentary and many of our award-winning Torchlighters programs for children. Of course, the easiest way to purchase Vision Video products is through the Vision Video website, www.visionvideo.com or via our toll free phone number, 1-800-523-0226.