Summer Program: (no church school on May 15 (confirmation), 22, 29, July 31, or the month of August) Torchlighters, Heroes of Faith series.

The Torchlighters is an ongoing series of animated programs with strong values and educational content. Each Torchlighters episode presents the story of a true-life hero from Christian history. Kids will see what God can do through a "Torchlighter" and will be challenged to carry their own torch while learning about the history of our faith.


June 5, The Perpetua Story -- In the days of the Early Church, this young mother and new believer is imprisoned, charged with being a Christian, a traitor to the Roman gods. In order to gain her freedom, all Perpetua needs to do is offer a pinch of incense to the gods of Rome, just like every other good citizen. With this one simple act she will gain her freedom and will return to a life of comfort. As her father pleads with her to think of her baby and the family's good reputation, Perpetua rises to face the Roman Pro-counsel. She has made her choice and there is no turning back. Watch as Perpetua's resolve is tested again and again by those opposed to her and the rest of the small group known as "Christians."

 
June 12, The Jim Elliot Story -- The year was 1956. From the steamy jungles of Ecuador, news spread around the world that five young American men were mercilessly killed by members of the Auca tribe (now known as the Waodani)--a people those young men had gone to serve and befriend. That seemingly senseless tragedy a half century ago has become an inspirational marvel as that same tribe is now friends with the families of those they killed! This is the story of one of those brave torchlighters--Jim Elliot. In this inaugural Torchlighters episode we follow Jim's adventures from his college years to his work in the jungles, showing young people his faith in action as he answers God's call to do the seemingly impossible.


June 19, The William Tyndale Story -- William Tyndale tops King Henry VIII's "Most Wanted" list in 1535 and is being pursued across Europe by the king's bounty hunters. What is his crime? Murder? Theft? No, none of these. William Tyndale's "crime" is translating the Bible into English for the common people. Is he willing to risk his life for this cause? This episode of The Torchlighters follows William Tyndale's adventures as he works in secret, moving from town to town as a fugitive to avoid capture. Friends and allies help him along, but enemies may be lurking around any corner. Come along and see whether this Torchlighter completes his task before the king's men close in on him.


June 26, The Amy Carmichael Story - As little Preena is snatched away from the most gentle woman she has seen in months, she wonders how she will ever again find a way out of the temple, where she is held against her will. How will she find the missionary known as Amy Carmichael, the one who wears a cross and serves a different sort of God? Meanwhile, Amy is also consumed by the awful truth she has learned about the plight of the "temple girls." Will Amy's faithful determination be enough to free Prenna from the powerful customs and superstitions that keep her hostage?

 
July 3, The John Bunyan Story -- John Bunyan spends his days in prison, separated from his wife and children. Living in the cold, stone cell is the price he pays for going against the Church of England. If only he would agree to stop preaching, John would walk out a free man! Why does he stay in jail and how will he continue to serve his Savior in this horrible place? Find out in this episode of The Torchlighters.


July 10, The Eric Liddell Story -- Pressure to follow public opinion couldn't get much stronger. National hero Eric Liddell is Scotland's pride and joy. The entire country is eager for their running celebrity to sprint past the rest of the world and bring home Olympic gold in the 100-meter race. But when Eric makes the stunning announcement that he won't race on Sunday because of his religious convictions, he is soon labeled a disgrace and a traitor. See how Eric's famous stand during the 1924 Olympics prepares him for even greater challenges as a missionary to China during World War II.


July 17, The Gladys Aylward Story -- With war raging about her and soldiers closing in, the wounded missionary Gladys Aylward (as portrayed in the movie, The Inn of the Sixth Happiness) sets out on the most difficult journey of her life -- a 100-mile trek over the mountains to a safe haven. But it's not her own safety that concerns this little woman with big faith. It's the safety and well being of the 100 orphaned children in her care. Watch as Gladys' strength and faith are stretched to the limit, all for the sake of the children.


July 24, The Richard Wurmbrand Story -- In war-torn Romania, there is only one way for churches to get the protection of the government: give their support and allegiance to the communists who are in control. Instead, Pastor Richard Wurmbrand chooses to speak up for Christ, thereby placing his own life and the lives of his family in great danger. When Richard's choice lands him in a communist prison, his faith and witness are tested to the limits. See how this Torchlighter's amazing story continues to impact the world today.