Secondary Catalogue

Secularisation—the idea that as societies modernise they becomes less religious in outlook and governance—is a key concept in the sociology of religion that has, in recent times, undergone a range of re-evaluations. This film, featuring contributions from three of the UK's foremost sociologists of religion, introduces students to a slightly different take on the concept of secularisation by looking at it in two ways: Firstly, by questioning the over-easy assumption that in pre-modernity, "religion was everywhere” whereas in modernity it is "almost nowhere”. Secondly, by looking at contemporary research evidence that suggests religion, rather than simply "disappearing”, may be undergoing a process of diversification: one that has seen a marked decline in orthodox measures of secularisation, from falling attendance at religious services to the organisational disengagement of the Church from secular governance, allied to a revival in various forms of spirituality—from yoga through witchcraft to a variety of New Age "spiritual therapies”. The film is designed to introduce students to the general concept of secularisation, its relationship to modernisation and a range of evaluative points that can be brought to bear in any discussion of secularisation. Show Less

Mary, heavily pregnant, continues to be guided by God's plan for her life. She and Joseph travel to Bethlehem where the Messiah, Jesus, is born. Hearing this news, Herrod orders the massacre of all baby boys in the town, forcing the new family to flee to Egypt. Mary is portrayed as a woman blessed by God, fiercely protective and nurturing of her son, the savior of the world. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

The close bond between Mary and her son is evident from the Gospel of John. With dignity and faith Mary mothered Jesus through the trials and tribulations of His life, even continuing to display discipleship and obedience to the Word of God after she unthinkably bears witness to the death of her only child. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Mary’s story is a lesson in showing unwavering faith in God’s word. Despite being young and unmarried Mary trusts the angel's message that she is favoured by God and will conceive and give birth to Jesus, the Son of the most High. Mary surrenders to this plan, unafraid of the potential consequences of bearing a child outside of wedlock. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Central to the story of God’s creation, Eve’s appearance in the Book of Genesis provides vital lessons about freedom of choice, good and evil, and the nature of sin. Made by God from the rib of Adam, they live as a couple in the Garden of Eden until their perfect harmony is disrupted… This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Steadfast to His word, God provides Sarah and Abraham with a child in old age, a son named Isaac who himself becomes the grandfather of the 12 tribes of Israel. Playing a central role in God’s plan for the Jewish nation, Sarah’s prominence in the Bible is testament to the strength of her faith. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Details of Mary Magdalene’s life are scarce, however misconceptions that have conflated her story with that of other, different woman in the Bible have tainted her reputation, suggesting a sinful past. The Bible shows us that Mary Magdalene was a devout and inspirational woman and a hero of the Bible. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

In a lapse of faith and desperation to become a mother, Sarah attempts to skirt God’s plan, instructing her husband to produce an heir with her Egyptian slave, Hagar. Providing important wisdom about the truth of God’s word, Sarah’s doubt proves that even the strongest of figures can stumble. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

As the kingdom into which she has married plans genocide of the Jewish population, Esther is at first paralysed by the fear of asking her husband, King Xerxes, for mercy on behalf of the people. However she soon realises that God has grander plans for her than simply Queen. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Central to the story of Jesus’ crucifixion, an ever-faithful Mary Magdalene stands by Him as He is taken to the cross; remaining there until his body is entombed. Mary Magdalene is the sole witness to Jesus’ resurrection and chosen to spread this news, cementing her role as one of Jesus’ devout disciples. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Her story told in one of the only two books in the Old Testament to be named after a woman, Esther is one of the most influential women of the Bible, risking her life to protect the Jewish people. Revered for her natural beauty, it is Esther’s intelligence and bravery that she uses time and time again for good. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Risking her life, Esther goes to the King uninvited and asks for mercy for her people. After deliberation, the King agrees, orders the mastermind behind the murder plot to be executed and frees the Jews from enslavement and religious persecution. Esther’s extraordinary leap from passive wife to powerful Queen illustrates the strength of women. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Suffering and marginalised before being rid of seven demons by Jesus, Mary Magdalene became one of His most loyal followers, even supporting Him financially. Mary Magdalene’s willingness to leave her life behind and disregard the societal expectations placed upon women at the time reveal her faith and strength of character. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

A courageous and devoted follower of God, Sarah’s story teaches lessons about the virtue of patience and loyalty, and the sanctity of God’s word. The infertile wife of Abraham, Sarah prays to become pregnant but first must follow her husband on his journey to Canaan, the promised land, under the instruction of God. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Bearing many children, Eve imbued in them a human propensity for both good and evil, which lived out in each generation. Eve, regarded as the first mother, effectively gave birth to civilisation and is fundamental to our understanding of sin in the world. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Tempted by the serpent, Eve’s disobedience by eating fruit from the forbidden tree of knowledge reveals lessons in impulsivity and responsibility. Their peaceful existence now turned to hardship, Eve and Adam learn that every action has a consequence. This short, beautifully animated video is ideal viewing for the study of women in Scripture. Show Less

Far from home and at the mercy of the pirates who kidnapped him, young Patrick spends his days tending sheep and surviving wild animal attacks. That is, until he calls out to the God of his youth. Long days spent aching for home become long days talking with Jesus. After six years as a slave, Patrick hears the Holy Spirit urging him to make a daring escape from the Irish tribe and the druid priest who controls their ways. Once back home, Patrick first becomes a priest and then a bishop, but all this pales when he makes a stunning announcement: He will return to his kidnappers as a missionary! Find out why the man known as St. Patrick is credited with bringing the Gospel to Ireland in this episode of The Torchlighters. Show Less

George Müller lived on radical prayer, depending on God to supply all his needs instead of asking others for help—even in his most desperate situations. By the time God opened his eyes to the neglected street children and the horrors of the workhouses, Müller did what he had always done: he prayed and trusted God to accomplish the impossible. In this 18th episode of the Torchlighters, discover God's miraculous provision and the power of prayer as Müller cared for 10,000 orphans over the span of 50 fruitful years. Show Less

Where does the term ‘mosque’ come from? In which direction does the mihrab face? What does wudu involve? This programme investigates these questions and others by taking learners through a mosque to experience the rituals performed by Muslims. Viewers will learn how aspects of the mosque represent the core beliefs of Islam and why this is important for people of faith. Show Less

What is the difference between Theravada and Mahayana? Why are elephant motifs found in temples? What is a mantra? This programme investigates these questions and more by taking a look at Buddhist symbolism, rituals and practices. Learners will gain a deeper understanding of the core beliefs of Buddhism and the importance of temples in worship and devotion. Show Less

How do mandalas feature in the floor plan of a mandir? Who conducts a puja service? What does aarti involve? This programme answers these questions and others through an exploration of Hindu religious beliefs and rituals. Viewers will learn about the ways in which Hindus show their devotion towards deities and how mandirs are designed to accommodate these expressions of faith. Show Less

What is a guru? Why do Gurdwaras have four doors? What food is served during services? This programme explores these questions and more by tracing the history of Sikhism and looking at the rituals that serve as expressions of faith. Learners will be transported inside a Sikh service and understand how the Gurdwara serves as a place of worship. Show Less

Where is the ark in a synagogue? How many candles are in a menorah? When does Shabbat take place? This programme looks into these questions and more by investigating the sacred objects found in a synagogue and the services that are held within. Learners will come away with an understanding of Jewish rituals and practices and the important role that the synagogue plays. Show Less

How were churches built? What symbols can be found inside? What happens during Mass? This programme explores these questions and more through a historical and contemporary lens, from the history of church design to the ceremonies carried out in a church. Learners will gain insight into Catholic practices and rituals and the role of the physical structure of a church in facilitating worship. Show Less

For centuries slavery reigned in parts of America, forcing an entire people into a lifetime of suffering and servitude. Living under the thumb of this oppressive system, young Harriet Tubman prayed ceaselessly that she and her family would be set free. Little did she know, God would use her and her resolute faith in Jesus to rescue not only her own family, but hundreds of other enslaved African-Americans as well. Discover how Harriet followed God, became the Moses of her people, and persevered despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles in this latest episode of The Torchlighters. Show Less