I recently watched a very good documentary on the church @ the margins of Canadian society. One Size Fits All? is an important film. One that effectively tells the story of that part of the Canadian church that is reaching out to the marginalized - whilst recognizing its own societal marginalization. Not necessarily a popular topic for the middle class church in my country. The film features churches at work across the country.
It might be easy for my American friends to consider not watching the film. I know many feel that Canada is much too far down the post-Christian road to have any insight into the church in the States. However, my AmeriCanadian* buddy, Dave Fitch is quick to point out that Canada is a foretaste of where the US is headed. In fact, as Dave says, the Northern US is not dramatically different in terms of the church and society.
For those of us engaged in the missional conversation, this is a must-see film. Watch the trailer. You'll recognize a number of names and faces - and meet people you need to meet. Order your copy here.
Is the film perfect? Not exactly. But Joe Manafo brings his natural talent for framing and composition to a medium he became comfortable with during the filmmaking process. And he is a gifted story teller. Which seems to make sense as Joe is one of the leaders of The Story in Sarnia, Ontario. (I've been shooting and directing for 30+ years and I learned things from Joe and this film.)
Joe will be sharing his storytelling gift and screening One Size Fits All? at the Vital Church Planting Conference in Toronto next week. (Feb 17 - 19). An event being put on by the Toronto Diocese of the Anglican Church of Canada and The Wycliffe College Institute of Evangelism.
Wycliffe's John Bowen and Montreal's Nick Brotherwood are the folk behind Fresh Expressions Canada - something you'll be hearing more about in the coming weeks and months. (Nick is also featured in Joe's film.)
In regards to Sarnia, I'm convinced there is something in the air of that Lake Huron city (other than Petro-chemical residue) because The Story's Nathan Colquhoun and his storyful cast of characters are the people behind the Evolving Church Conference. An event featuring Stanley Hauerwas and Marva Dawn that will be worth the drive to the Meeting House in Oakville. (Imbi and I will be there with a crew to shoot some interviews and conversations.)
Watch their irreverent take on the event in this commercial. And make a point of coming to this one day event on March 21st.
*I call David Fitch an AmeriCanadian as he spent much of his youth in Canada and one of his parents is a Canadian.
