Boom boom boom boom boom boom.

Boom boom boom boom boom boom.

Welcome to living by Faith with Trillia Newbell. I'm your host, Trillia, and I am so glad to be here. Here's the thing. Today's program is unique in that it is taped so we will not be taking calls today. As always, you can email me at living by faith@moody.edu and we can get in touch there. You can also share any thoughts or questions, so feel free to email me at living by faith@moody.edu. I don't know about you, but I love a good story, especially a true story. And you know, I I've gotten into fiction a little, but it's it's really the, the true stories that capture my heart and my attention because true stories help us to learn about people, about truth, about faithfulness, and ultimately about the faithfulness of God and how he has sought. He sees people through the valleys, the highs and the lows and and he carries them through. It's awesome. I love a good true story. And today we have two guests who have captured an incredible true story through a unique medium. Josh and Rebecca Weigel are award winning filmmakers with a unique ability to create deeply moving stories that transform and inspire action. They are currently at the helm of sounds of Hope, the story of Possum Trot as the writers, lead producers and director. Hey, this isn't in their bio, but Josh is also acting in it, which I find really remarkable. They are also dedicated foster and adoptive parents and staunch advocates for the faith community to care for the vulnerable children and families. Josh and Rebecca, welcome to the show.

Welcome to living by Faith with Trillia Newbell. I'm your host, Trillia, and I am so glad to be here. Here's the thing. Today's program is unique in that it is taped so we will not be taking calls today. As always, you can email me at living by faith@moody.edu and we can get in touch there. You can also share any thoughts or questions, so feel free to email me at living by faith@moody.edu. I don't know about you, but I love a good story, especially a true story. And you know, I I've gotten into fiction a little, but it's it's really the, the true stories that capture my heart and my attention because true stories help us to learn about people, about truth, about faithfulness, and ultimately about the faithfulness of God and how he has sought. He sees people through the valleys, the highs and the lows and and he carries them through. It's awesome. I love a good true story. And today we have two guests who have captured an incredible true story through a unique medium. Josh and Rebecca Weigel are award winning filmmakers with a unique ability to create deeply moving stories that transform and inspire action. They are currently at the helm of sounds of Hope, the story of Possum Trot as the writers, lead producers and director. Hey, this isn't in their bio, but Josh is also acting in it, which I find really remarkable. They are also dedicated foster and adoptive parents and staunch advocates for the faith community to care for the vulnerable children and families. Josh and Rebecca, welcome to the show.

Thank you. Good to be here, Julia.

Thank you. Good to be here, Julia.

Yes. We're so excited. And we love, love living by faith. That's that's been our journey. So thank you for having us on.

Yes. We're so excited. And we love, love living by faith. That's that's been our journey. So thank you for having us on.

Oh, yes. Absolutely. Such a joy. Well, speaking of your journey and living by faith, I would love for, um, just my listeners to learn a little bit more about you. And I know since there's two of you, I'm going to start with you, Rebecca. Tell us a little bit about, um, your journey and about yourselves.

Oh, yes. Absolutely. Such a joy. Well, speaking of your journey and living by faith, I would love for, um, just my listeners to learn a little bit more about you. And I know since there's two of you, I'm going to start with you, Rebecca. Tell us a little bit about, um, your journey and about yourselves.

Yeah, well, it's interesting because this story began in faith with Bishop and First Lady Donna stepping out in faith and obedience. Um, and so we've always said the story began in faith, and it's going to be made in faith as well. And so our journey began. Um, in 2013, the Lord called us to start fostering and adopting children, and we added two children. We had three biological children. We now have five children, um, into our family. And that just broke our heart for this issue and for kids that are in the foster system and ignited this passion for the churches to rise up and really be the solution to the foster crisis in America.

Yeah, well, it's interesting because this story began in faith with Bishop and First Lady Donna stepping out in faith and obedience. Um, and so we've always said the story began in faith, and it's going to be made in faith as well. And so our journey began. Um, in 2013, the Lord called us to start fostering and adopting children, and we added two children. We had three biological children. We now have five children, um, into our family. And that just broke our heart for this issue and for kids that are in the foster system and ignited this passion for the churches to rise up and really be the solution to the foster crisis in America.

And and you said that you yourselves are foster and adoptive parents. Is that correct?

And and you said that you yourselves are foster and adoptive parents. Is that correct?

Yes. Yeah. So we adopted two. And then before we left Los Angeles, we also fostered a teen girl as well.

Yes. Yeah. So we adopted two. And then before we left Los Angeles, we also fostered a teen girl as well.

Okay. That's amazing. And and Josh, I would just love to hear a little bit of your journey because you left Los Angeles, but you are now living in East Texas, deep Texas, Texas somewhere. We are.

Okay. That's amazing. And and Josh, I would just love to hear a little bit of your journey because you left Los Angeles, but you are now living in East Texas, deep Texas, Texas somewhere. We are.

Yeah, we're in Nacogdoches, Texas, which is the oldest town in Texas, um, for anyone interested. And, uh, yeah, we were in Los Angeles for 23 years, and that's that was kind of a lifelong goal. I'm someone who knew what, um, I wanted to do and felt called to do when I was pretty young. So I'd always had my my heart set on Hollywood and making movies that, um. You know, we're different. I wanted to do things that. You know, I hoped and prayed that people would experience God in. I really wasn't very. Very drawn to the typical Christian media. Um, but I really wanted to I wanted people to experience God in some way. And yeah, I loved that medium. Um, it's it's an incredible medium to work in. And so, you know, that's that's sort of the origin story of, of where all this came from. And so we went out to Los Angeles shortly after we got married. And, uh, we're there for 23 years. And then long story short, we we came across this story, and Rebecca was really instrumental in, um, you know, the process of deciding to do this. And, you know, one of those one of the reasons is because it's such a it's such a big story. We'll get into it. But it's 22 families and 77 kids. And it's, it's it's not really suited for a narrative feature film kind of two hour space. Um, which is part of the challenge and why we ended up moving here. Because after several years of development and honing the story and trying to figure out how to get that into two hours, we got to a point where we felt like, you know, it needs something more, and we're so committed to this and getting it right and making sure we're we're we're faithful to the story and honoring everybody involved. Um, we just felt like we need to get closer to this community and really get to know people and, um, make sure they understand we're not just filmmakers trying to make a buck. You know, it's not about that at all. Um, and so we we moved our family out here about three years ago, and that that really caused us to turn a corner with this story we feel.

Yeah, we're in Nacogdoches, Texas, which is the oldest town in Texas, um, for anyone interested. And, uh, yeah, we were in Los Angeles for 23 years, and that's that was kind of a lifelong goal. I'm someone who knew what, um, I wanted to do and felt called to do when I was pretty young. So I'd always had my my heart set on Hollywood and making movies that, um. You know, we're different. I wanted to do things that. You know, I hoped and prayed that people would experience God in. I really wasn't very. Very drawn to the typical Christian media. Um, but I really wanted to I wanted people to experience God in some way. And yeah, I loved that medium. Um, it's it's an incredible medium to work in. And so, you know, that's that's sort of the origin story of, of where all this came from. And so we went out to Los Angeles shortly after we got married. And, uh, we're there for 23 years. And then long story short, we we came across this story, and Rebecca was really instrumental in, um, you know, the process of deciding to do this. And, you know, one of those one of the reasons is because it's such a it's such a big story. We'll get into it. But it's 22 families and 77 kids. And it's, it's it's not really suited for a narrative feature film kind of two hour space. Um, which is part of the challenge and why we ended up moving here. Because after several years of development and honing the story and trying to figure out how to get that into two hours, we got to a point where we felt like, you know, it needs something more, and we're so committed to this and getting it right and making sure we're we're we're faithful to the story and honoring everybody involved. Um, we just felt like we need to get closer to this community and really get to know people and, um, make sure they understand we're not just filmmakers trying to make a buck. You know, it's not about that at all. Um, and so we we moved our family out here about three years ago, and that that really caused us to turn a corner with this story we feel.

Um, you know, I, I'm glad you brought that point up, because I do think that some people, I don't think anyone listening to this would think of exploitation, but there's so much of that when when you have this something that's remarkable or, or even adoption and, and, um, kind of using these narratives, these stories, this real life pain of someone. Yeah. Um, in a way that's it's, um, unhelpful, unhealthy or abusive in some ways. And, and but you guys, uh, you moved to the community. I just I think that's pretty remarkable. I have not heard of something like that where a filmmaker moved to that community to, to really understand the story. But you're you it's also a lived experience. So for you guys, it's not something that you're you're not separated completely from the reality of what this, um, this church and this community did. Now, now we're speaking into these vague terms. I tell our listeners what we're talking about. So who is the community and what happened?

Um, you know, I, I'm glad you brought that point up, because I do think that some people, I don't think anyone listening to this would think of exploitation, but there's so much of that when when you have this something that's remarkable or, or even adoption and, and, um, kind of using these narratives, these stories, this real life pain of someone. Yeah. Um, in a way that's it's, um, unhelpful, unhealthy or abusive in some ways. And, and but you guys, uh, you moved to the community. I just I think that's pretty remarkable. I have not heard of something like that where a filmmaker moved to that community to, to really understand the story. But you're you it's also a lived experience. So for you guys, it's not something that you're you're not separated completely from the reality of what this, um, this church and this community did. Now, now we're speaking into these vague terms. I tell our listeners what we're talking about. So who is the community and what happened?

Yeah, I'll take that one. Um, so this community, um, Possum Trot Texas, is in deep East Texas, right on the Louisiana border. And it began really in 1997. First lady Donna, her her mother passed away, and her mom was this incredible, you know, loving person who had 18 children. And there was a matriarch to the whole community, and everyone loved her. And she you know, when she passed away, first Lady Donna was really struggling with depression and just missing her mom, and she was grieving. And the Lord spoke to her and told her to give back and to foster and adopt. And she really didn't even know what that meant. And so she became very passionate and started going to classes. And she eventually convinced her husband to to get on board. And and the Reverend Martin, you know, started his heart started breaking for kids, and they ended up adopting four of some of the most difficult children. And calling their whole church to get involved and even their community. And so this is a really small community in East Texas. And at the end, 22 families adopted 77 of some of the most difficult to place children in the Texas child welfare system and really emptied the system at that time, um, within a hundred mile radius of the community.

Yeah, I'll take that one. Um, so this community, um, Possum Trot Texas, is in deep East Texas, right on the Louisiana border. And it began really in 1997. First lady Donna, her her mother passed away, and her mom was this incredible, you know, loving person who had 18 children. And there was a matriarch to the whole community, and everyone loved her. And she you know, when she passed away, first Lady Donna was really struggling with depression and just missing her mom, and she was grieving. And the Lord spoke to her and told her to give back and to foster and adopt. And she really didn't even know what that meant. And so she became very passionate and started going to classes. And she eventually convinced her husband to to get on board. And and the Reverend Martin, you know, started his heart started breaking for kids, and they ended up adopting four of some of the most difficult children. And calling their whole church to get involved and even their community. And so this is a really small community in East Texas. And at the end, 22 families adopted 77 of some of the most difficult to place children in the Texas child welfare system and really emptied the system at that time, um, within a hundred mile radius of the community.

Now, this started in 1977. You said 70, um, 1997.

Now, this started in 1977. You said 70, um, 1997.

Her mother passed away. 919 sorry. Yeah. And 98 is when they started adopting children.

Her mother passed away. 919 sorry. Yeah. And 98 is when they started adopting children.

Okay. 1997 and 98. So these children are now in their they're adults. Yes, yes. So were they involved in this process?

Okay. 1997 and 98. So these children are now in their they're adults. Yes, yes. So were they involved in this process?

Yeah. I mean we that was one reason we moved out to DPS Texas, because we really wanted to get to know the kids better and get to know the families and the pastor and his wife. And, I mean, we really take it seriously. And when you're telling someone's story, especially heroes like this that have been, you know, just there's such an amazing example for others and for other churches. And we wanted to honor their story. So moving out was really helpful just to get to know the characters, the kids, and capture it as authentically and accurately as possible.

Yeah. I mean we that was one reason we moved out to DPS Texas, because we really wanted to get to know the kids better and get to know the families and the pastor and his wife. And, I mean, we really take it seriously. And when you're telling someone's story, especially heroes like this that have been, you know, just there's such an amazing example for others and for other churches. And we wanted to honor their story. So moving out was really helpful just to get to know the characters, the kids, and capture it as authentically and accurately as possible.

Um, that's just truly amazing. And now, one of the things that you said and, and I don't think most of us don't think in terms of filmmaking, you said you couldn't capture it in two hours. So. So tell us about the actual film. Is it, um, longer? Shorter when when someone's sitting and watching, what will they experience?

Um, that's just truly amazing. And now, one of the things that you said and, and I don't think most of us don't think in terms of filmmaking, you said you couldn't capture it in two hours. So. So tell us about the actual film. Is it, um, longer? Shorter when when someone's sitting and watching, what will they experience?

Yeah. And we did get it into about two hours, just a little over two hours. Um, so what I meant was it's just such a challenge with that many characters. I mean, normally you're following one character, and the reason the story is remarkable is because it was a community that that did this together. And, you know, 22 families stood up and said, we're going to do something about this. So to to really make sure that you experience that well and aren't just told that, but you're actually experiencing that in the story. Um, it's challenging because it's very easy to get distracted by the many different characters and many different storylines. And so it took a while to figure out how to focus the story in a way that was cinematic and worked on the screen, but still was faithful to the fact that there's a lot of people involved here. And so we we you will experience, um, the main character that represents the children is an actual person named Terry. She's one of the the Martin's kids. And so we we sort of center the, the perspective of the child on her life. And then the Martin's, of course, are the, the main characters. And you experience the story from their perspective. So you're going to go and mainly experience the Martin's family, um, their saga with Terry and her overcoming. Yeah, the tremendous trauma and experiences that she had that were really painful and, and detrimental. Um, but then you do also get to know family and the community around them and the other kids. And and we wanted to, you know, we want people to we wanted to experience all of it, not just 1 or 2 parts of what this is like, you know, to take kids and parent kids through that kind of stuff is really tough. But it's not the only thing, you know, there's a lot of joy. There's a lot of, uh, other aspects to the to the community and things that are so unique to that community. And, I mean, it's a predominantly black community, East Texas, very, very small region. It's a church that's generations old. It was founded in the late 1800s. I mean, there's a lot of history there. And so we just wanted everyone to experience all of that.

Yeah. And we did get it into about two hours, just a little over two hours. Um, so what I meant was it's just such a challenge with that many characters. I mean, normally you're following one character, and the reason the story is remarkable is because it was a community that that did this together. And, you know, 22 families stood up and said, we're going to do something about this. So to to really make sure that you experience that well and aren't just told that, but you're actually experiencing that in the story. Um, it's challenging because it's very easy to get distracted by the many different characters and many different storylines. And so it took a while to figure out how to focus the story in a way that was cinematic and worked on the screen, but still was faithful to the fact that there's a lot of people involved here. And so we we you will experience, um, the main character that represents the children is an actual person named Terry. She's one of the the Martin's kids. And so we we sort of center the, the perspective of the child on her life. And then the Martin's, of course, are the, the main characters. And you experience the story from their perspective. So you're going to go and mainly experience the Martin's family, um, their saga with Terry and her overcoming. Yeah, the tremendous trauma and experiences that she had that were really painful and, and detrimental. Um, but then you do also get to know family and the community around them and the other kids. And and we wanted to, you know, we want people to we wanted to experience all of it, not just 1 or 2 parts of what this is like, you know, to take kids and parent kids through that kind of stuff is really tough. But it's not the only thing, you know, there's a lot of joy. There's a lot of, uh, other aspects to the to the community and things that are so unique to that community. And, I mean, it's a predominantly black community, East Texas, very, very small region. It's a church that's generations old. It was founded in the late 1800s. I mean, there's a lot of history there. And so we just wanted everyone to experience all of that.

That is awesome. When we come back, I want to dive deep into the actual story, some of the things that they experienced and how we can. Our faith can be built by their story more when we return. Welcome back to living by Faith with Trillia Newbell. I am talking to Josh and Rebecca Weigel and that we're talking about the sound of Hope, the story of Possum Trot. This story tells the remarkable true story of Donna and Reverend Martin's journey to ignite a movement of compassion in their community. And and how did they do that? Through adoption and foster care and on all of these, these incredible families that started in 1997 and has continued. I think it's it's truly a remarkable tale of compassion and love and care and outward thinking. I think so often when we think about communities and we think about ourselves and, and, and this community came together and thought, how can they care for the most vulnerable people around them? And, and and I and and what is remarkable to me also is that these families, it sounds like many have stayed together and in that community. Is that correct? Our most of those those families still in that community.

That is awesome. When we come back, I want to dive deep into the actual story, some of the things that they experienced and how we can. Our faith can be built by their story more when we return. Welcome back to living by Faith with Trillia Newbell. I am talking to Josh and Rebecca Weigel and that we're talking about the sound of Hope, the story of Possum Trot. This story tells the remarkable true story of Donna and Reverend Martin's journey to ignite a movement of compassion in their community. And and how did they do that? Through adoption and foster care and on all of these, these incredible families that started in 1997 and has continued. I think it's it's truly a remarkable tale of compassion and love and care and outward thinking. I think so often when we think about communities and we think about ourselves and, and, and this community came together and thought, how can they care for the most vulnerable people around them? And, and and I and and what is remarkable to me also is that these families, it sounds like many have stayed together and in that community. Is that correct? Our most of those those families still in that community.

They are. Yeah they are those. Yeah. Yeah. Go ahead. But there's.

They are. Yeah they are those. Yeah. Yeah. Go ahead. But there's.

Go ahead. Rebecca. Are are they. No. That's fine. I, I will start saying your names. How about that? But. Okay. But are they mostly in those communities still?

Go ahead. Rebecca. Are are they. No. That's fine. I, I will start saying your names. How about that? But. Okay. But are they mostly in those communities still?

Yeah, a lot of the kids are still in the community and a lot of the families, um, some have moved on because it's such a small community, there's not as much opportunity. So some live in Dallas and Houston, Nacogdoches, Shreveport. But yeah, a lot of them have stayed together, or some of the kids have moved back over the years. Once they start having kids and want them to experience the country life and and just the simplicity of it all.

Yeah, a lot of the kids are still in the community and a lot of the families, um, some have moved on because it's such a small community, there's not as much opportunity. So some live in Dallas and Houston, Nacogdoches, Shreveport. But yeah, a lot of them have stayed together, or some of the kids have moved back over the years. Once they start having kids and want them to experience the country life and and just the simplicity of it all.

Yes, I, I, I know that in a good story, there's drama there. If you're going to capture someone and keep them watching, you have to have tell the story of drama. Now in this situation, obviously these are true stories. So that kind of tenderness and care that you have to, um, use and to balance that, I can only imagine how that was. But, Josh, I wondered, because you had talked about how you focused in on, um, Terry, I believe you said and and so tell us some of the ways that you told her story.

Yes, I, I, I know that in a good story, there's drama there. If you're going to capture someone and keep them watching, you have to have tell the story of drama. Now in this situation, obviously these are true stories. So that kind of tenderness and care that you have to, um, use and to balance that, I can only imagine how that was. But, Josh, I wondered, because you had talked about how you focused in on, um, Terry, I believe you said and and so tell us some of the ways that you told her story.

Yeah. She's, um. So. So Terry's an amazing person. She's doing well. And her story is is is gripping. It's, um, you know, it's kind of the natural storyline to follow. Uh, when it came to the many kids to get to know. And so, you know, it was part of what convinced me to want to do this, you know, it's my heart was completely in it, you know, it's it's it's a powerful and tragic thing. And there's a lot of drama to it. Um, but once I started to get to know the kids stories and what they'd endured and, um, what that meant to the people who were going to then care for them, I mean, I really I really felt like, okay, this is something I could get excited about. And so her story stood out. You know, she's been through so much. Um, one of the things with kids in the system is you don't get a lot of clarity sometimes on on all their experiences. Right? So she's experienced probably far more than we even know. Um, but she'd been through at least 11 homes before she came to the Martins. Um, and, you know, I'll tell you some of the things that she's experienced. She's she's talked about this and written about this, but, um, you know, she went through terrible, uh, sexual trauma being raped, and, and her mom was, uh, not someone who mothered well at all and put her in a lot of vulnerable situations. And she was hurt by friends and these kinds of things. And so she just, uh, you know, she she was in a really, really difficult place. She even, um, got to the point where she was relating as a cat just trying to deal with, you know, the the trauma that she'd gone through. And I don't know if she would even know why she. She acted like a cat for a little while, and you know that was part of the, the situation when she came to the Martins and sort of untangling the Terri pain is a big part of the story. And, um, you know, she's such a resilient woman, though, and, you know, it's the actor that we found for her was remarkable. So, you know, I think you're going to experience someone who isn't so given over to their, their mess and the things they've experienced that you kind of lose hope in them. You know, you manage to hold on to hope as you walk through her story with her and feel that strength.

Yeah. She's, um. So. So Terry's an amazing person. She's doing well. And her story is is is gripping. It's, um, you know, it's kind of the natural storyline to follow. Uh, when it came to the many kids to get to know. And so, you know, it was part of what convinced me to want to do this, you know, it's my heart was completely in it, you know, it's it's it's a powerful and tragic thing. And there's a lot of drama to it. Um, but once I started to get to know the kids stories and what they'd endured and, um, what that meant to the people who were going to then care for them, I mean, I really I really felt like, okay, this is something I could get excited about. And so her story stood out. You know, she's been through so much. Um, one of the things with kids in the system is you don't get a lot of clarity sometimes on on all their experiences. Right? So she's experienced probably far more than we even know. Um, but she'd been through at least 11 homes before she came to the Martins. Um, and, you know, I'll tell you some of the things that she's experienced. She's she's talked about this and written about this, but, um, you know, she went through terrible, uh, sexual trauma being raped, and, and her mom was, uh, not someone who mothered well at all and put her in a lot of vulnerable situations. And she was hurt by friends and these kinds of things. And so she just, uh, you know, she she was in a really, really difficult place. She even, um, got to the point where she was relating as a cat just trying to deal with, you know, the the trauma that she'd gone through. And I don't know if she would even know why she. She acted like a cat for a little while, and you know that was part of the, the situation when she came to the Martins and sort of untangling the Terri pain is a big part of the story. And, um, you know, she's such a resilient woman, though, and, you know, it's the actor that we found for her was remarkable. So, you know, I think you're going to experience someone who isn't so given over to their, their mess and the things they've experienced that you kind of lose hope in them. You know, you manage to hold on to hope as you walk through her story with her and feel that strength.

I was thinking about how you would tell that story of such pain and suffering, especially for a child. Yeah, and and I my heart is gripped and and having not yet watched this movie, which I, I do look forward to watching. Um, but my heart is gripped just hearing that, um, because I have children and you don't want them to suffer and to know the pain that they went through, but I can only imagine how it will minister to others. So what is your hope for others as they're watching this, that, that? How do you hope it might impact communities?

I was thinking about how you would tell that story of such pain and suffering, especially for a child. Yeah, and and I my heart is gripped and and having not yet watched this movie, which I, I do look forward to watching. Um, but my heart is gripped just hearing that, um, because I have children and you don't want them to suffer and to know the pain that they went through, but I can only imagine how it will minister to others. So what is your hope for others as they're watching this, that, that? How do you hope it might impact communities?

Yeah. I mean, I'll just say my, my. My feeling on that is that when you're dealing with someone else's life and the things they've gone through, it's a it's like hallowed ground, you know, you've got to be really respectful and careful and, um, you know, she's she's someone that, you know, we got to meet when we moved here. And I think that really helped get us to a point where we were trusted with it. And so all that said, though, you know, we don't we didn't want to take this to such a degree that it would it would disturb people. I mean, of course, others go through is, is just can be really scary. And so the point isn't with authenticity to become so realistic that it's just it's disturbing, you know, so we we don't do that. We don't bring people through any of that. Um, you'll, you'll learn about what she's experienced. But we we're careful, um, how we depicted that. And even with some of the other kids and the things that they went through were really careful. But we're also honest, you know, we don't want it to, you know, be something that you just you say, and then you cut away and you don't really get to get into the world that these children are currently living in. That's that's a big part of it, is you want people to understand that kids by the tens of thousands, there's 100,000 kids that need families right now and 400,000 kids in the system. So you've got kids that are living daily, living in, uh, terrifying situations. And I want people to understand the urgency of of their plight and what it is that they face every day, every night. And and to be honest enough that you create a sense of, of urgency and responsibility, like you're, you know, like if you pass an accident on the side of the road, you don't just drive by. If there's no one there, you're going to stop and you're going to help. And I want people to to feel that when it comes to what these kids have had to live through. But we also don't want to get so lost in that, that, you know, it's just too overwhelming. So you're not going to feel that in this movie. You're going to feel like, okay, I understand to some degree what these kids are facing. Um, but now let's get into the hope. Now let's get into the redemptive power of love and the redemptive power of of committing to these kids as, as parents and walking through that. So you're you're going to experience a tremendous amount of emotion, and it's going to be highs and lows. And in the end, you know, you're you're never going to be left feeling like, um, this is a hopeless situation.

Yeah. I mean, I'll just say my, my. My feeling on that is that when you're dealing with someone else's life and the things they've gone through, it's a it's like hallowed ground, you know, you've got to be really respectful and careful and, um, you know, she's she's someone that, you know, we got to meet when we moved here. And I think that really helped get us to a point where we were trusted with it. And so all that said, though, you know, we don't we didn't want to take this to such a degree that it would it would disturb people. I mean, of course, others go through is, is just can be really scary. And so the point isn't with authenticity to become so realistic that it's just it's disturbing, you know, so we we don't do that. We don't bring people through any of that. Um, you'll, you'll learn about what she's experienced. But we we're careful, um, how we depicted that. And even with some of the other kids and the things that they went through were really careful. But we're also honest, you know, we don't want it to, you know, be something that you just you say, and then you cut away and you don't really get to get into the world that these children are currently living in. That's that's a big part of it, is you want people to understand that kids by the tens of thousands, there's 100,000 kids that need families right now and 400,000 kids in the system. So you've got kids that are living daily, living in, uh, terrifying situations. And I want people to understand the urgency of of their plight and what it is that they face every day, every night. And and to be honest enough that you create a sense of, of urgency and responsibility, like you're, you know, like if you pass an accident on the side of the road, you don't just drive by. If there's no one there, you're going to stop and you're going to help. And I want people to to feel that when it comes to what these kids have had to live through. But we also don't want to get so lost in that, that, you know, it's just too overwhelming. So you're not going to feel that in this movie. You're going to feel like, okay, I understand to some degree what these kids are facing. Um, but now let's get into the hope. Now let's get into the redemptive power of love and the redemptive power of of committing to these kids as, as parents and walking through that. So you're you're going to experience a tremendous amount of emotion, and it's going to be highs and lows. And in the end, you know, you're you're never going to be left feeling like, um, this is a hopeless situation.

Absolutely. Speaking of redemptive power, how were the parents affected? Did you capture that? Well, because you you. We can see how a child was. But. But what about the parents? Rebecca, do you have any thoughts on that?

Absolutely. Speaking of redemptive power, how were the parents affected? Did you capture that? Well, because you you. We can see how a child was. But. But what about the parents? Rebecca, do you have any thoughts on that?

Yeah, I'll just say, you know, finding that balance between, you know, really waking people up to the realities of what's, what's going on with vulnerable children in our country. And, and really for the purpose of, of getting people more involved and stepping into this. And I mean, we show the power of the church and we show how a beautiful marriage, you know, coming together, fighting for kids together through the highs and the lows and, and really how it does impact the parents as well. And we've seen that as foster adoptive parents too, is you know, we stepped in and it was it was the hardest thing we've ever done. And there was a point where we were like, oh my gosh, what have we done? We should give up. But at the same time, like, the Lord used that in our lives to really cause us to be humble, you know, to be humbled and to recognize our need for the church and our recognize our need for the Lord. And so we do show that. We show, really, I mean, what is possible through the church and how God changes us in the midst of trials and challenges. When we step in and we and we step out in faith, in obedience and follow him into scary places.

Yeah, I'll just say, you know, finding that balance between, you know, really waking people up to the realities of what's, what's going on with vulnerable children in our country. And, and really for the purpose of, of getting people more involved and stepping into this. And I mean, we show the power of the church and we show how a beautiful marriage, you know, coming together, fighting for kids together through the highs and the lows and, and really how it does impact the parents as well. And we've seen that as foster adoptive parents too, is you know, we stepped in and it was it was the hardest thing we've ever done. And there was a point where we were like, oh my gosh, what have we done? We should give up. But at the same time, like, the Lord used that in our lives to really cause us to be humble, you know, to be humbled and to recognize our need for the church and our recognize our need for the Lord. And so we do show that. We show, really, I mean, what is possible through the church and how God changes us in the midst of trials and challenges. When we step in and we and we step out in faith, in obedience and follow him into scary places.

Have you seen the church respond yet to this? Have you heard of. I know that their story is not new, but capturing it in this way, I believe is. And so have you seen that yet?

Have you seen the church respond yet to this? Have you heard of. I know that their story is not new, but capturing it in this way, I believe is. And so have you seen that yet?

Absolutely. I mean, we are thrilled that people are off because they're so engaged and they're really connecting with the characters and really connecting with the child, the children, um, particularly this character, Terry. I mean, we we humanize her. And and it's making people root for the kids and say, wow, if they can do it, we can do it. Church can do it. Our church can do it. I mean, we at a screening, you know, in the Midwest, there was a whole community together for a pre screening. And they've decided we want to do what they did in possum. They're they're stepping up and starting to get involved with fostering and adopting and wrapping around the families that are stepping in. And and that's what we hope happens all over the state that that the church follows the lead of Bennett Chapel in Possum Trot and says this is what we're called to, and there's no excuse where there should not be 100,000 children languishing in the foster system without a family. It's time for the church to to rise up and take care of this.

Absolutely. I mean, we are thrilled that people are off because they're so engaged and they're really connecting with the characters and really connecting with the child, the children, um, particularly this character, Terry. I mean, we we humanize her. And and it's making people root for the kids and say, wow, if they can do it, we can do it. Church can do it. Our church can do it. I mean, we at a screening, you know, in the Midwest, there was a whole community together for a pre screening. And they've decided we want to do what they did in possum. They're they're stepping up and starting to get involved with fostering and adopting and wrapping around the families that are stepping in. And and that's what we hope happens all over the state that that the church follows the lead of Bennett Chapel in Possum Trot and says this is what we're called to, and there's no excuse where there should not be 100,000 children languishing in the foster system without a family. It's time for the church to to rise up and take care of this.

I just, I, I can only imagine the number of churches and people who are being, um, moved towards action through, through this and to hear, uh, stories I think, that are often hidden, um, like the Bennett Chapel in Possum Trot. I think getting them into the the limelight and in the forefront, I, I think is so important and, and so I just wanted to honor you and the work that you do. I just love that the Lord has given so many different gifts and different mediums and different ways for us to, um, share about. Him and the good stories and and ultimately the good news. And so we're, we're going to keep diving into this story and really diving into the lives of those who made this story happen more when we come back.

I just, I, I can only imagine the number of churches and people who are being, um, moved towards action through, through this and to hear, uh, stories I think, that are often hidden, um, like the Bennett Chapel in Possum Trot. I think getting them into the the limelight and in the forefront, I, I think is so important and, and so I just wanted to honor you and the work that you do. I just love that the Lord has given so many different gifts and different mediums and different ways for us to, um, share about. Him and the good stories and and ultimately the good news. And so we're, we're going to keep diving into this story and really diving into the lives of those who made this story happen more when we come back.

22 families want to adopt. Whole town wants kids now.

22 families want to adopt. Whole town wants kids now.

That's about right.

That's about right.

What's happening with Possum Trot could mean a huge change for the system.

What's happening with Possum Trot could mean a huge change for the system.

We want the ones that nobody else wants.

We want the ones that nobody else wants.

Who hurt you, baby? I'm not giving up on you. You can't give up on me either.

Who hurt you, baby? I'm not giving up on you. You can't give up on me either.

That was from the trailer of sound of Hope, the story of Possum Trot. You know, I love story, and we've been talking a lot about story. But here's the thing. This is a true story. And I also at the break was talking about how the Lord has given us so many different gifts in the church, and we all get to execute our gifts in various ways. And how the Lord has used and is using Josh and Rebecca in in such a unique way to capture the story of Possum Trot and Bennett Chapel so that we can be inspired and encouraged towards action. And so when you think about what you hope, um, the, the, the individual, I think we all want the church should be the feet of Jesus. We all should be. Um. Loving the vulnerable, tending and caring for those who are in need. But it really is about the person, individuals. And what do you say to the person who watches that? And they think, nope, I can't do it. Rebecca, I think you mentioned that you had that own that your that same kind of tension as you and your husband adopted. Um, what do you say? How do you encourage the person who thinks, gosh, I'm too weak or I am not a counselor? I don't even know what to do. I'm not equipped to serve in this way. How can you encourage them?

That was from the trailer of sound of Hope, the story of Possum Trot. You know, I love story, and we've been talking a lot about story. But here's the thing. This is a true story. And I also at the break was talking about how the Lord has given us so many different gifts in the church, and we all get to execute our gifts in various ways. And how the Lord has used and is using Josh and Rebecca in in such a unique way to capture the story of Possum Trot and Bennett Chapel so that we can be inspired and encouraged towards action. And so when you think about what you hope, um, the, the, the individual, I think we all want the church should be the feet of Jesus. We all should be. Um. Loving the vulnerable, tending and caring for those who are in need. But it really is about the person, individuals. And what do you say to the person who watches that? And they think, nope, I can't do it. Rebecca, I think you mentioned that you had that own that your that same kind of tension as you and your husband adopted. Um, what do you say? How do you encourage the person who thinks, gosh, I'm too weak or I am not a counselor? I don't even know what to do. I'm not equipped to serve in this way. How can you encourage them?

Well, I did some foster care recruitment, actually. After we adopted our kids, I started working with churches to get them more involved and would meet with families who are interested. And I would just say that everybody feels like they're not ready. Like everyone I met with, we felt that as a family, it was just like, oh, you know, we'll we've made it in Hollywood and I can afford or I have a bigger house or my kids are grown. How is that going to affect my children? Everybody has those worries, thoughts, those fears. And I would just encourage you if it's hurt and the Lord is calling you into it, um, it will never feel like the right time. And the Lord uses when we step out in faith and we, you know, when we don't feel like we have it together. Like he uses the process to transform and to change us and to mold us. And it's been the best thing that's happened for our own biological children, too, because it really forced them to put their eyes on someone else. And and on other we're in need and it has a lot of pain and take their eyes off themselves. Which children are, you know, notoriously known for, you know, focusing just on their own needs. But it's really.

Well, I did some foster care recruitment, actually. After we adopted our kids, I started working with churches to get them more involved and would meet with families who are interested. And I would just say that everybody feels like they're not ready. Like everyone I met with, we felt that as a family, it was just like, oh, you know, we'll we've made it in Hollywood and I can afford or I have a bigger house or my kids are grown. How is that going to affect my children? Everybody has those worries, thoughts, those fears. And I would just encourage you if it's hurt and the Lord is calling you into it, um, it will never feel like the right time. And the Lord uses when we step out in faith and we, you know, when we don't feel like we have it together. Like he uses the process to transform and to change us and to mold us. And it's been the best thing that's happened for our own biological children, too, because it really forced them to put their eyes on someone else. And and on other we're in need and it has a lot of pain and take their eyes off themselves. Which children are, you know, notoriously known for, you know, focusing just on their own needs. But it's really.

Well, I just I do think that that is something that we all want for all of our children is to be able to take our eyes off of ourselves and to and to serve and to to see others in their need. Josh, she's mentioned your own children. So do you mind to to dive into how this has impacted them?

Well, I just I do think that that is something that we all want for all of our children is to be able to take our eyes off of ourselves and to and to serve and to to see others in their need. Josh, she's mentioned your own children. So do you mind to to dive into how this has impacted them?

Yeah. I mean the so the, the two we adopted, it's, uh, you know, it's something that you just never know how each child is going to process what they've gone through. And so I think one of the things that helped our kids, um, was just seeing our heart for this in, in other lives and in the lives of other kids and, and how, um, you know, this this whole issue motivates us. It's it's not just, um, about them. There's other kids in the world that have experienced similar things. It's one of the things that you'll find with, with kids is they feel like they're the only ones that have have experienced the things that they've experienced. And so I think knowing that there are other kids out there suffering and, uh, it's helped them to not feel so alone in that. And it's actually developed in them, a desire to help. And, you know, they've they've been able to have a ringside seat to, um, efforts in other kids lives. And so they know what that looks like to some degree. And, you know, it's created some compassion in them and understanding in them. And I think it's really helped them to, you know, when it's tough as a parent, when you're having your issues, when your your ugliness comes out and and your weaknesses come out, um, you just you hope that doesn't discount what you're trying to do and how you really feel. And so it's been dynamic. I think it's helped all of our kids understand, you know, our weaknesses and then, you know, validate in some way the, the, the deep and overarching, uh, desire to help, um, regardless of all that stuff that you might struggle with.

Yeah. I mean the so the, the two we adopted, it's, uh, you know, it's something that you just never know how each child is going to process what they've gone through. And so I think one of the things that helped our kids, um, was just seeing our heart for this in, in other lives and in the lives of other kids and, and how, um, you know, this this whole issue motivates us. It's it's not just, um, about them. There's other kids in the world that have experienced similar things. It's one of the things that you'll find with, with kids is they feel like they're the only ones that have have experienced the things that they've experienced. And so I think knowing that there are other kids out there suffering and, uh, it's helped them to not feel so alone in that. And it's actually developed in them, a desire to help. And, you know, they've they've been able to have a ringside seat to, um, efforts in other kids lives. And so they know what that looks like to some degree. And, you know, it's created some compassion in them and understanding in them. And I think it's really helped them to, you know, when it's tough as a parent, when you're having your issues, when your your ugliness comes out and and your weaknesses come out, um, you just you hope that doesn't discount what you're trying to do and how you really feel. And so it's been dynamic. I think it's helped all of our kids understand, you know, our weaknesses and then, you know, validate in some way the, the, the deep and overarching, uh, desire to help, um, regardless of all that stuff that you might struggle with.

You know, some of these kids aren't kids, right? So they they are in their 20s. 26 to 20, in their 30s, potentially.

You know, some of these kids aren't kids, right? So they they are in their 20s. 26 to 20, in their 30s, potentially.

In their 30s. Yeah.

In their 30s. Yeah.

Yeah. So has this translated to or been passed on to a new generation? Have any of those kids, um, adopted or or is it, is it kind of what they did at that time and during that season?

Yeah. So has this translated to or been passed on to a new generation? Have any of those kids, um, adopted or or is it, is it kind of what they did at that time and during that season?

Yeah, I think it's more that. I think it's more just, um, their story was not, you know, let's let's go do this now ourselves. Um, and all of these kids have different backgrounds. Some of them weren't wildly traumatized. They were just, um. I shouldn't say just. It's it's it's traumatizing to not be wanted and to lose a family. Right? It's a huge, huge thing. But, you know, some of the challenges were because they had siblings and it was difficult to place a family of three or 4 or 5 kids. And so the desire to keep them all together was part of some of their stories. Um, so no, I don't I don't think that they've taken it on, taken it on in that sense. But the, the, the Martins have become, you know, very. Powerful voices in this space. And this story has has resonated and reverberated into this whole arena. It's it's had a huge effect, and it really is part of the inception of this whole kind of church to child movement, if you will, where, you know, churches are looking at those kids and families in crisis with fresh eyes. And they've been inspired by this story for, you know, a couple of decades now. And so it's had it's a huge impact around the nation. And the Martins do continue to speak all around the nation. And and they're very you know, they're just powerful. Their voice moves things when they speak. It has a lot of weight. And it it's, uh, it's really caused a lot of, um, interest and in the hearts of churches around the nation.

Yeah, I think it's more that. I think it's more just, um, their story was not, you know, let's let's go do this now ourselves. Um, and all of these kids have different backgrounds. Some of them weren't wildly traumatized. They were just, um. I shouldn't say just. It's it's it's traumatizing to not be wanted and to lose a family. Right? It's a huge, huge thing. But, you know, some of the challenges were because they had siblings and it was difficult to place a family of three or 4 or 5 kids. And so the desire to keep them all together was part of some of their stories. Um, so no, I don't I don't think that they've taken it on, taken it on in that sense. But the, the, the Martins have become, you know, very. Powerful voices in this space. And this story has has resonated and reverberated into this whole arena. It's it's had a huge effect, and it really is part of the inception of this whole kind of church to child movement, if you will, where, you know, churches are looking at those kids and families in crisis with fresh eyes. And they've been inspired by this story for, you know, a couple of decades now. And so it's had it's a huge impact around the nation. And the Martins do continue to speak all around the nation. And and they're very you know, they're just powerful. Their voice moves things when they speak. It has a lot of weight. And it it's, uh, it's really caused a lot of, um, interest and in the hearts of churches around the nation.

That is that is remarkable. So do you know of any other community who have gathered around this idea and and put feet to it really have started to to act. I know that there are so many churches who have, um, foster and adoption. Ministries, but do you know any who were inspired and went to work?

That is that is remarkable. So do you know of any other community who have gathered around this idea and and put feet to it really have started to to act. I know that there are so many churches who have, um, foster and adoption. Ministries, but do you know any who were inspired and went to work?

Uh, yeah.

Uh, yeah.

I mean, there is a group in South Carolina that I've been connecting with recently where, like Bennett Chapel. Um, they stepped in, but it was actually a whole group of rural churches in South Carolina that have adopted over 1000 kids. And their outcomes are just incredible. And so I've been trying to get in contact with them and to learn more about the story, but I think that's going to start becoming more and more common, you know, and our hope is watching this film, being inspired by the film that we're going to start seeing this happening all over the country. It's going to spread like wildfire, and we're going to see churches rising up and saying, hey, why not us? Let's do the same. Let's take care of all the kids in our zip code right here in our community, and make sure that there's not a child without a home.

I mean, there is a group in South Carolina that I've been connecting with recently where, like Bennett Chapel. Um, they stepped in, but it was actually a whole group of rural churches in South Carolina that have adopted over 1000 kids. And their outcomes are just incredible. And so I've been trying to get in contact with them and to learn more about the story, but I think that's going to start becoming more and more common, you know, and our hope is watching this film, being inspired by the film that we're going to start seeing this happening all over the country. It's going to spread like wildfire, and we're going to see churches rising up and saying, hey, why not us? Let's do the same. Let's take care of all the kids in our zip code right here in our community, and make sure that there's not a child without a home.

How did Donna and Reverend Martin respond to the film?

How did Donna and Reverend Martin respond to the film?

They love it there, so they really, really love it. Bishop Martin said there's not one thing I would change. So that's, you know, for us that's really that was so important. And it's always a little nerve wracking, you know, telling a true story with people that are still there. And but yeah, they've been really pleased. And he's like Josh said, he is a powerful, powerful voice for the movement.

They love it there, so they really, really love it. Bishop Martin said there's not one thing I would change. So that's, you know, for us that's really that was so important. And it's always a little nerve wracking, you know, telling a true story with people that are still there. And but yeah, they've been really pleased. And he's like Josh said, he is a powerful, powerful voice for the movement.

Well, that is what we want to hear. The people who led this story are inspired by their own story and the way you have captured it. That's awesome. More when we return. Welcome back to living by Faith with Trillia Newbell. I am Trillia and we have been talking with Josh and Rebekah Weigel and their film sound of Hope The Story of Possum Trot. I find it remarkable to think through. I think I've used that word remarkable a lot during this as I think about it. Um, and it's because when you hear about a whole community that's gathered together, unified under one cause to help the vulnerable, to care for the needy, to serve children, I can't help but be in awe of God and the way that he would move in the lives of of all of these people to for them to come together. I think it's truly it is. It is remarkable. Which is why I keep using that word. You know, I think you've said it in the beginning. But, Rebecca, could you tell us how many? People, how many families adopted children and how many children were adopted?

Well, that is what we want to hear. The people who led this story are inspired by their own story and the way you have captured it. That's awesome. More when we return. Welcome back to living by Faith with Trillia Newbell. I am Trillia and we have been talking with Josh and Rebekah Weigel and their film sound of Hope The Story of Possum Trot. I find it remarkable to think through. I think I've used that word remarkable a lot during this as I think about it. Um, and it's because when you hear about a whole community that's gathered together, unified under one cause to help the vulnerable, to care for the needy, to serve children, I can't help but be in awe of God and the way that he would move in the lives of of all of these people to for them to come together. I think it's truly it is. It is remarkable. Which is why I keep using that word. You know, I think you've said it in the beginning. But, Rebecca, could you tell us how many? People, how many families adopted children and how many children were adopted?

22 families adopted 77 children, and they asked for the ones that no one else would take. So these were sibling sets. These were older kids. These were kids whose rights had already been terminated and they just needed to be adopted.

22 families adopted 77 children, and they asked for the ones that no one else would take. So these were sibling sets. These were older kids. These were kids whose rights had already been terminated and they just needed to be adopted.

And and I think that is something that we should we should talk about. Because you are right that that often in foster adoption situations, it's certain children in certain situations that get adopted and then others are left behind. And and I do hear about sibling groups and children who are older, who are often they stay in the system. And so I, I just I hope that if they're listening that they know just how, um, incredible their story is. And, and that the it's just a beautiful picture of the love of God and that he loves us and, um, he loves us unconditionally. And we can't earn his favor. We can't do anything. It's just a picture of the gospel and and. Yes, yes. And so I just. Yeah. Josh, you have thoughts about that?

And and I think that is something that we should we should talk about. Because you are right that that often in foster adoption situations, it's certain children in certain situations that get adopted and then others are left behind. And and I do hear about sibling groups and children who are older, who are often they stay in the system. And so I, I just I hope that if they're listening that they know just how, um, incredible their story is. And, and that the it's just a beautiful picture of the love of God and that he loves us and, um, he loves us unconditionally. And we can't earn his favor. We can't do anything. It's just a picture of the gospel and and. Yes, yes. And so I just. Yeah. Josh, you have thoughts about that?

Yeah. I think that, um.

Yeah. I think that, um.

There's so much more going on than caring for children when you do this and. Right. You know, I think about, um, how trite it can sound to say something like, you know, you're going to be so, so moved and changed as well, you know, as if you're benefiting off of someone else's pain. So I say that carefully. Yeah. But I really think that's part of just life on Earth. You know, we we're not telling a story. Um, that's, you know, extra special. I mean, this is really about people following Jesus. This is what it looks like to actually live out your faith. And when you do that, I mean, there's there's all kinds of things going on. You're doing the care and the love for others, but you're also being changed by that. And that's God's intention, you know, is to cause the changes that he's looking for in you when you're doing things for other people. And so we've found that to be true in our own lives. And it's something that's remarkable about about this, this community. You know, they didn't they didn't do this because they had degrees in child development. And they were they were doing it because there were kids who were suffering. They follow Jesus. And that's what you do. And so, you know, I hope people understand that, um, you know, it's very easy in this nation is blessed. And and as many things that have happened that benefited the world through it, you know, it's just very easy at the same time to become comfortable and to sit back and kind of rest in that and not not remain active as we are supposed to be as we follow Jesus. You know, he's he's where the hard things are happening. He's where the suffering is. He's where the pain is. And as as scary as that sounds and off putting and uncomfortable, that's a reality that we we want people to be reminded of. You know, I live life thinking about eternity. You know, this life is going to go so quickly. And I live life thinking about, you know, what am I going to do when I'm standing before God and I'm answering for this life and and all that that could happen here. So I, I want us all to have that perspective. You know, that this is brief and as blessed as it is, let's live on the edge with him and meet the needs of the people. Who his heart is is going out to the vulnerable, the ones who can't help themselves, children. I mean, that's the most vulnerable there is.

There's so much more going on than caring for children when you do this and. Right. You know, I think about, um, how trite it can sound to say something like, you know, you're going to be so, so moved and changed as well, you know, as if you're benefiting off of someone else's pain. So I say that carefully. Yeah. But I really think that's part of just life on Earth. You know, we we're not telling a story. Um, that's, you know, extra special. I mean, this is really about people following Jesus. This is what it looks like to actually live out your faith. And when you do that, I mean, there's there's all kinds of things going on. You're doing the care and the love for others, but you're also being changed by that. And that's God's intention, you know, is to cause the changes that he's looking for in you when you're doing things for other people. And so we've found that to be true in our own lives. And it's something that's remarkable about about this, this community. You know, they didn't they didn't do this because they had degrees in child development. And they were they were doing it because there were kids who were suffering. They follow Jesus. And that's what you do. And so, you know, I hope people understand that, um, you know, it's very easy in this nation is blessed. And and as many things that have happened that benefited the world through it, you know, it's just very easy at the same time to become comfortable and to sit back and kind of rest in that and not not remain active as we are supposed to be as we follow Jesus. You know, he's he's where the hard things are happening. He's where the suffering is. He's where the pain is. And as as scary as that sounds and off putting and uncomfortable, that's a reality that we we want people to be reminded of. You know, I live life thinking about eternity. You know, this life is going to go so quickly. And I live life thinking about, you know, what am I going to do when I'm standing before God and I'm answering for this life and and all that that could happen here. So I, I want us all to have that perspective. You know, that this is brief and as blessed as it is, let's live on the edge with him and meet the needs of the people. Who his heart is is going out to the vulnerable, the ones who can't help themselves, children. I mean, that's the most vulnerable there is.

There are. Yes, 100%. And as you were talking, it made me think of Second Corinthians one four and I'm going to read the New Living Translation. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. And in so many ways this is um. By capturing this story, we're going there's going to be someone who watches it, who identifies with the children and who identifies with the pain and the suffering and the sorrow, and will be comforted and reminded of God's faithfulness and his goodness. Um, and so I want to dive a little bit more as we finish up our time together on the creative aspect of it, because I want to encourage those who who might be aspiring filmmakers. What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers who are passionate about telling, um, stories that will last, like sound of Hope?

There are. Yes, 100%. And as you were talking, it made me think of Second Corinthians one four and I'm going to read the New Living Translation. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. And in so many ways this is um. By capturing this story, we're going there's going to be someone who watches it, who identifies with the children and who identifies with the pain and the suffering and the sorrow, and will be comforted and reminded of God's faithfulness and his goodness. Um, and so I want to dive a little bit more as we finish up our time together on the creative aspect of it, because I want to encourage those who who might be aspiring filmmakers. What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers who are passionate about telling, um, stories that will last, like sound of Hope?

Yeah, well, my thoughts on that are, um. Passionate. You know, we could we could talk a while on that and I, I said earlier, I've had trouble in my life, um, relating enough to what I guess you could understand, as, you know, Christian entertainment and, and, you know, that's just my thing. I don't want that to sound critical, but it's it's what we're hoping for is to see those artists that God has created to dive deep into the development of their, of their skills and and to really commit to that and to understand the art forms that they're called to. And, and I think that simple shift couldn't make a huge difference. It's it's, uh, I think so many of us see how powerful media can be and is. And we want to, uh, we want to see that used. And I love that. And it's true. But there's also this this, this really strong need to understand each art form well and to have given the time to it to be developed and challenged and, and all the rest and to just grow as creatives. I want to see that across the board for all of us myself. You know, I want to I want to grow more and more as an artist and accept the limitations for each one of those art forms so that we don't try to do more with it than should be done with it. But we learn how to use it and to work within it so that it can. It can be as powerful as it. It can reach its potential. You know, I think we we it's untapped so often because maybe we, we're a little, um, disconnected from from what it can, what it can do and how best to use things. So that's our heart is to really just humbly all of us, you know, commit to the process of growing as artists. And then learning how to take the the passion for our, uh, our Savior and our and our our desire to change this world and to see the wrongs of this world corrected, um, and learn how to do it with the nuance and all the different things that it takes to to really move people and change them through each of these art forms.

Yeah, well, my thoughts on that are, um. Passionate. You know, we could we could talk a while on that and I, I said earlier, I've had trouble in my life, um, relating enough to what I guess you could understand, as, you know, Christian entertainment and, and, you know, that's just my thing. I don't want that to sound critical, but it's it's what we're hoping for is to see those artists that God has created to dive deep into the development of their, of their skills and and to really commit to that and to understand the art forms that they're called to. And, and I think that simple shift couldn't make a huge difference. It's it's, uh, I think so many of us see how powerful media can be and is. And we want to, uh, we want to see that used. And I love that. And it's true. But there's also this this, this really strong need to understand each art form well and to have given the time to it to be developed and challenged and, and all the rest and to just grow as creatives. I want to see that across the board for all of us myself. You know, I want to I want to grow more and more as an artist and accept the limitations for each one of those art forms so that we don't try to do more with it than should be done with it. But we learn how to use it and to work within it so that it can. It can be as powerful as it. It can reach its potential. You know, I think we we it's untapped so often because maybe we, we're a little, um, disconnected from from what it can, what it can do and how best to use things. So that's our heart is to really just humbly all of us, you know, commit to the process of growing as artists. And then learning how to take the the passion for our, uh, our Savior and our and our our desire to change this world and to see the wrongs of this world corrected, um, and learn how to do it with the nuance and all the different things that it takes to to really move people and change them through each of these art forms.

Now I'm assuming it also takes a community that you you didn't do it just yourselves. It took the community. That community to come on. Is were there any other people who. Came around you.

Now I'm assuming it also takes a community that you you didn't do it just yourselves. It took the community. That community to come on. Is were there any other people who. Came around you.

Yeah, I'll speak into that a little bit because I was working in Los Angeles, like I said, recruiting foster adoptive parents, working with churches. And then I actually came across this organization called Care Portal that's owned by the Global Orphan Project. And it's this incredible technology platform that social workers, school districts, crisis pregnancy clinics can put needs into. And those needs go out to the community. And the churches in particular, meet those needs and families that are in crisis, kids that are in crisis, a lot of prevention to strengthen families. And so I was working as their area director in Southern California, just getting churches involved, meeting the needs of vulnerable families. And we gave the script we were struggling to get the right funding. And we had actually, you know, this this story was kind of a little bit of a stretch because we knew it needed to be told in an authentic way. That was, um. So anyways, Care Portal CEO Joe Kennedy came alongside, raised the funding and really helped make this film happen. So just wanted to give a shout out to Care Portal.

Yeah, I'll speak into that a little bit because I was working in Los Angeles, like I said, recruiting foster adoptive parents, working with churches. And then I actually came across this organization called Care Portal that's owned by the Global Orphan Project. And it's this incredible technology platform that social workers, school districts, crisis pregnancy clinics can put needs into. And those needs go out to the community. And the churches in particular, meet those needs and families that are in crisis, kids that are in crisis, a lot of prevention to strengthen families. And so I was working as their area director in Southern California, just getting churches involved, meeting the needs of vulnerable families. And we gave the script we were struggling to get the right funding. And we had actually, you know, this this story was kind of a little bit of a stretch because we knew it needed to be told in an authentic way. That was, um. So anyways, Care Portal CEO Joe Kennedy came alongside, raised the funding and really helped make this film happen. So just wanted to give a shout out to Care Portal.

I love that communities help us, people help us and organizations help us. I'd like to thank my guest, Josh and Rebecca Weigel for joining me today, and also thanks to the behind the scenes team at Moody Radio, my producer Karen Hendren, and my engineer, Bob Morrow, to hear today's program again. You'll find it at living by Faith radio.org, or on the Moody Radio app. Living by Faith is a production of Moody Radio, a ministry of Moody Bible Institute. Um.

I love that communities help us, people help us and organizations help us. I'd like to thank my guest, Josh and Rebecca Weigel for joining me today, and also thanks to the behind the scenes team at Moody Radio, my producer Karen Hendren, and my engineer, Bob Morrow, to hear today's program again. You'll find it at living by Faith radio.org, or on the Moody Radio app. Living by Faith is a production of Moody Radio, a ministry of Moody Bible Institute. Um.