Lecture on Film, Faith, and Media Philanthropy

Introduction

• Speaker Introduction: Nicholas, a filmmaker with a new film "Leap of Faith". Previously known for "Won't You Be My Neighbor" about Fred Rogers.
• Support and Collaboration: Supported by Pace with a focus on both financial and reputational backing.

Motivations for "Leap of Faith"

• Film as an Act of Faith: Film-making involves years of work with uncertain outcomes, driven by a belief in the film's core message.
• Broad Concept of Faith: Not limited to religious contexts, but what we choose to believe in our lives.
• Contextual Relevance: Centers on Christianity, the largest faith group in the U.S., and explores acceptance of differences.

Themes and Taglines

• Bridging Divides: The film explores building understanding rather than persuading others of a particular viewpoint.
• Space for In-betweenness: Focuses on creating a middle ground rather than binary choices.
• Sexuality and Christianity: Discusses challenges within Christianity, such as sexuality, and the Methodist Church's recent split.

Bridging a Divided World

• Perception of Division: The world is less uniformly divided than perceived, offering opportunities for connection.
• Gradual Change: Evolution in relationships and understanding can occur unexpectedly over time.

Role of Media

• Media Narratives: Often misrepresent or weaponize faith; importance of portraying faith authentically.
• Smugness Around Faith: Exists on both sides, whether dismissive or condescending.
• Shared Importance: Encourages sharing personal faith stories to find common ground.

Interaction of Faith and Democracy

• Faith's Humility: Requires acknowledging doubt and possibilities of being wrong, parallel to civic duties.
• Avoiding Rupture: Need to risk and repair discord, rather than avoiding it.

Philanthropy's Role

• Philanthropy and Risk: Encourages taking risks in exploring difficult topics and narratives.
• Leading Through Exploration: Philanthropists have the opportunity to lead and discover the unknown.

Art and Endurance

• Enduring Legacy: Art, music, faith, and science endure over time, unlike countries or companies.
• Philanthropy's Long-Term Vision: Supports cultural and scientific endeavors that may shape future generations.

Conclusion

• Encouragement for Future Creations: Emphasizes the importance of creating art and narratives that endure.
• Final Performances: Musical pieces by Marta Guillarque and Maeve Gilchrist celebrate the themes of the event.

Key Takeaways

• Film-making and philanthropy both require faith and risk-taking.
• Bridging divides involves creating understanding and space for differences.
• Media plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions of faith and democracy.
• Philanthropy has the unique capability to support enduring cultural works.