Once again, children’s ministry leaders and children’s pastors need to be on the watch and educate their parents and children. In December, a film with the title The Golden Compass is being released. It is my understanding that Phillip Pullman, the author, is an atheist and desires to pull kids and families in so he can get them to buy his triology of books where in the end the children kill God and everyone can do as they please. The fact that this movie is coming out in December is a ploy to entice parents into purchasing the set of books for their children for Christmas. Upon reading the books, they will encounter a strong anti-God theme. I have read that part of the story in the book includes a referral to castration and female circumcision. And, it’s supposed to be a kids book!
If you go to the website for The Golden Compass, you will encounter all sorts of things from the dark side, including a tab for daemons. In essence Pullman is endeavoring to sell atheism to children.
While I haven’t read the books, nor do I intend to, I think it would be wise for children’s ministry leaders to ‘wise up’ on this one so they can speak and respond intelligently.
What have you heard about this movie? Anyone read the book who would like to comment about it? In what ways could children’s pastors and leaders go about helping parents and children alike respond to this?
For just once I would love it if people would actually read a book before they diss it.
First off, there is no castration or female circumcision in the books. At all. That is a total falsity.
Second, there are not demons in the book. There are daemons. An educated person understands the difference between the two. Clearly, you are not this type of person. Anyway, the daemons are simply visual representations of people’s souls. This is a creative and interesting plot device, being able to actually see the soul.
**Plot Spoiler*
Third, the world they live in does not contain a real god. It contains creatures with greater power who try to control the creatures underneath them. The children do not kill god. They accidentally kill an old man, who actually is grateful for the release. The character who is rebelled against is killed, but by the children’s parents and mentors, not by the children themselves.
These books are wonderful fantasies that actually manage to present some real truths to children about love lost and independence. Unlike your horrible Chronicles of Narnia series and the like which force-feed them horrible lies over again. And yes, I have actually read the Chronicles of Narnia, unlike you and the His Dark Materials trilogy.
Here’s an idea. Start thinking for yourself instead of listening to what everybody else tells you. Pick up a book. Read something. Think for yourselves. A book isn’t going to hurt you.
To Anonymous-
You are most certainly intitled to your comment but your comments are covered over by your tone. If you are going to post on this blog, please keep your comments on the topic and not a personal attack.
Clearly you do not know Tony.
Why would we want our children to read about creatures with great power, especially when it is written by an atheist -dah!
To put my opinion in, I think we need to read things to our children that acutally will make a difference in their life – how about books on character building or bios. YWAM offers great bios for young readers.
Here is a website someone emailed me about this movie. http://snopes.com/politics/religion/compass.asp Maybe it will give some insight to your thoughts.
And on the topic of Anonymous.. two things
1. We offer no appologies for being over protective of our kids and your kids. It is our job as children’s Leaders and parents to teach our kids morals and standards for good christian living.
2. An educated person would have the guts to post their name on this site and not hide behind anonymous. But clearly concerning the Topic of education..well you get the point.
Here is the quote:
“You know only the north; I have traveled in the south lands. There are churches there, believe me, that cut their children too, as the people of B. did – not in the same way, but just as horribly. They cut their sexual organs, yes, both boys and girls; they cut them with knives so that they shan’t feel. That is what the church does, and every church is the same: control, destroy, obliterate every good feeling…”
And they do allude to the castration of choir boys in Compass.
The above quote if from the second book “The Subtle Knife”
Here is an informative article…
http://truthquest.net/newsletter/newsletter-goldencompass07.html
They site all their sources at the close of their article.
hi all! i’m def not an expert or anything but i’ve read all the chronicles of narnia books and these and all of the harry potter. i am also a christian and these books were def not my favorite but i’m just wondering if yall really think it will have that big of an effect on kids. i mean i’m in college now but i read the chronicles of narnia all through elementary school and harry potter in middle and high school and i never thought that these books were for real life. i think the more important thing is to make kids understand the difference between reality and fantasy. now PLEASE PLEASE do not think that i am endorsing this movie at all bc i am NOT but doesnt it only have a negative effect of children if we let them think its real? and isnt giving it this much attention just going to make more people want to go see it out of curiosity which is exactly what we dont want? but anyway i was just wondering what yall’s thoughts were on that. have a great day!!!
I really find it humorous how bold that some people can become while posting a response under anonymous…it really is too easy isn’t it? Anyhow, obviously “anonymous” should take some of their own advice and stop forcing their own opinion down everyone else’s throat that may be reading this blog. I respect you for standing up for what you believe in but not at the expense of belittling someone else in the process…it really just kind of exposes apparent issues such as insecurity and immaturity.
You people kill me. There is no evil plot to corrupt the minds of children anymore than Star Wars makes people believe in wookies. It’s fiction. You want to boycott disney because they’re gay…Well you got over that pretty quick. Now you want to boycott a fantasy movie because it may send bad messages. Why don’t you try to stop the porn industry that’s destroying the lives of millions of teenagers and even grown men? Why not something important? You don’t really care, you just want something to be mad about. You found it and you’ll forget about it 3 weeks after the release.
OK, here’s someone who is not anonymous. I find it greatly disappointing that all the responses to “Anonymous” are simply counterattacks on her/his apparent character and not on what he/she said about thinking for yourself and reading the books instead of simply blindly repeating what you have “heard” that the books say (and this is important: completely independent of all context).
“I have read that part of the story in the book includes a referral to castration and female circumcision. And, it’s supposed to be a kids book!” I find it hard to believe that the writer of this remark is serious; if so, I do not believe that they actually understand what they are saying. The statement is not logical, nor does it make any sense at all. How can I say this? Well, castration and female circumcision are certainly horrible things, but so is cutting off someone’s head and presenting it on a platter, or what about stabbing someone in the gut, or killing someone by slinging stones at their head. Or, for that matter, how about reading a story that involves a brutal account of the Roman’s excruciatingly painful crucifixion! Certainly none of those things belong in *any* book that a child should read, right? The only thing that would come of that is a brutal and evil generation of murderers! Oh wait, that’s all in the Bible. Context, people. Think!
Just in case you don’t get it, I’m not trying to bash the Bible at all. I’m just trying to point out how ridiculous this thing is that you are doing. To only take the negative incidents in a book (like killing someone by slinging rocks at their head – remember, David and Goliath?), to allow someone to present it to you with no context whatsoever, and without even trying to find out for yourself if they are telling you the truth (“While I haven’t read the books, nor do I intend to, I think it would be wise for children’s ministry leaders to ‘wise up’ on this one so they can speak and respond intelligently.”), to believe that just because a book has this event in it means that the book must be the pathway to the depths of hell, is *completely* foolish. How can you “respond intelligently” to something that you a priori are unwilling to even know anything about? You sound like someone trying to convince the world that baseball is evil because the catcher is wearing a mysterious mask (“I don’t know why the catcher wears that mask, nor do I intend to find out, but I know that I don’t want my children putting on mysterious masks and going out and doing evil!”). All you are teaching is “why life is so much easier if you simply rely on prejudice and stereotypes”. Who needs to learn how to think for themselves? Who indeed. Maybe our children? Unless you plan on somehow holding their hand for their *entire* life.
As I have shown, you can use the same method to throw out the Bible itself, and any other book that portrays anything negative or difficult at all. Any book, in other words, that will present to our children the realities of life and the necessity of developing the strength and integrity to be mighty like the Lord in spite of all the evil and tragedy around us.
I *have* read the His Dark Materials series. I have also read the Harry Potter series. I’ve also read the Bible. I certainly didn’t decide that I wanted to kill God or become a dark wizard. Nor did I go out and murder people with a sling and some smooth round stones. But I was deeply touched and inspired by the sacrifices of two great friends (Materials), and the importance of standing up for your friends, yourself, and always doing the right thing (Potter). And of trying to emulate and follow the Savior throughout my life.
If you take something out of context and then somehow convince people not to simply look for themselves to see if you are lying to them or not, you can make them believe anything. That doesn’t sound like what Jesus had in mind to me.
David,
While I completely understand where you are coming from on the whole comparison to the Bible point, I think that it is ludicrous to even think that children and adults are on the same level mentally…however, that is obviously what you are promoting throughout your entire rant…that if we would allow children to be exposed to such things, that they would have the mental capacity to decipher for themselves between what’s right and what’s wrong through what they find in their readings. Seriously, come on…why do you think that there are things such as ratings on movies and video games…obviously, because what’s appropriate for an adult (who can decipher for themselves between what’s right and what’s wrong) and what is appropriate for a child are two completely different things. Do you honestly think that I expect my daughter to understand the book of Revelation at a young age (because it’s certainly not in her picture Bible)? Speaking from a father’s perspective, I think that we would be doing our children a huge disservice if we aren’t willing to guard what they are “taking in” during a very crucial and influential stage of their life. I think that you have taken this entire post itself “out of context” because I don’t read anywhere in it where it is trying to get anyone to not read the book or even see the movie for themselves, but rather to be a buffer between it and our children, which is the same thing that I do as a parent with anything and everything (including the Bible).
If that’s the case then there should be no worry that they will associate these stories with church bashing or god hating, if that is even the case…
Wow! What wonderful dialog is being spawned on this issue . . . hmmm. Very interesting. I must admit that even as I write this response, I am still soaking in some of the comments made thus far, trying to understand the perspectives brought forth and the “context” of the points of view from whom they were brought. I don’t think I’m going to get it right through a blog site. Nonetheless, I feel compelled to add my two cents to the conversation, for what its worth.
First, I’d have to agree, its pretty shameless to make a very strong judgment about something or someone under the guise of “anonymous.” I mean, really, if you are going to say it boldly, make yourself known. Your opinion gains more respect that way. Otherwise, have your opinion, but keep it to yourself.
But moving past that now I’d like to mention that I am impressed with some of the points made by David. I actually found myself thinking that, yes, in fact there are some valid comparisons here to consider if the content was at the core of the issue. If I am perceiving this dialog correctly, a big focus has been placed on specific content. And content is important to be aware of, especially in terms of how Josh has explained as it pertains to parental responsibilities. (Thanks for mentioning that Josh.) But, I don’t believe the real issue is entirely about the content of this movie, or the books for that matter. I know for myself, the issue is more centered around the fact that as a parent (first) and a children’s minister (second) I have a responsibility to those who I serve and minister that share my values and beliefs (or faith). It is the expectation of these parents that should I discover something in our midst that might overtly or subtly influence our children negatively as it relates to our values and beliefs, I need to do my best to provide them with the best information possible for them to make a decision for themselves concerning the issue.
Yes, I agree with you David, those of us who consider ourselves to be leaders of people (or people of influence), should avail ourselves to watch, read, or discover the essence of the materials we are concerned about firsthand. Personally, I will probably watch this movie and read these books, for the purpose of being fully knowledgeable of the exact content and how it relates negatively or otherwise to our faith. I can do this without regret or fear of hypocrisy because I can objectively filter them through my beliefs and values and know that my faith will not be compromised. I would hope that most parents would be able to do the same. But I will have to say that, though society at large would want us to believe otherwise, children do not have this ability. Yes, they can decide between right and wrong; but the maturity to discern and filter through various influences is more often than not a rarity. Thus the importance of parental intervention. And David, I don’t think you could disagree that a parent should provide this protection, regardless of their faith. Well . . . you could disagree, but I hope you don’t.
As I conclude my “book”, let me say to Francis, obviously (as with “anonymous”) there has been an emotional cord struck here. And I can appreciate that. In fact, one was struck within me just as I read your first comment. Who are “you people”? I mean, come on. I want to hear differing opinions and respect them accordingly. But overt derogatory generalizations will not validate any opinion . . . ever . . . at least in my book. Take it as you will.
Finally, I would send a word of caution to anyone else who considers responding to these comments. I think well thought out comments that are to the point will promote educational and inspiring discussion on this subject. But it can be very tempting to pollute legitimate opinion with judgmental emotion. And though emotion may fuel our response, lets make sure we don’t compromise the purpose of our statements with careless commentary.
That was just annoying.
What does knowing a person’s name do for “you people” anyway? If a person writes a comment under anonymous then that is their choice. What difference does it make to you? Does it make his or her statement any less credible. Get off their back.
I’m not saying parents shouldn’t guard their children from things that they deem unsafe or what have you. All I’m saying is that this, like many other situations that, yes, Christians (primarily Baptists, but not just them) try to boycott or warn people about is just another fad. It comes and goes as fast as it started. It really seems that you are just looking for something to stand up against because you don’t get out there and fight the good fight like Paul did so you feel dry and empty and this makes you feel better.
There are a lot more important things to do. Jesus said to go into all the world and preach the gospel. He gave the great comission to the church and we sit here and debate over a stupid movie that will make no difference in the lives anyone.
I have friends who are in the mission field. I have had friends that have died in the mission field, terrible deaths because they preached the gospel. And we’re debating a movie. The fact that I am sitting here typing this now makes me ashamed because I should be out there carrying my cross, but I’m not. I’m discussing anouther Christian fad that no one will remember 3 weeks from now.
Talk about this junk all you want. Just remember, people are dying for their faith. Souls are being saved and many are still lost and are dying on their way to hell. I don’t think God is as worried about this movie as you are. If you think He is in control, then leave it up to Him. He’s given you more important things to do.
my thought is just that phillip pulman is not a very good person and i dont want him making money off of trying to sell the idea that there is no God. he is quoted as saying that he wants to destroy God in the minds of children…to me, thats just sick.
Seems to me that the church has been making plenty of money for almost 2000 years selling the idea that there is a God. They(we) have conquered, stolen, plundered, tortured, and murdered for their (our) beliefs. Now some of their followers are afraid of a movie. If they had real faith, this movie would be of no concern. Go feed the hungry and clothe the naked and stop worrying about this. Merry Christmas!
i agree with jenna. after reading this blog, there is tons of stuff going through my head. But why set our children up to be tricked into stuff like this? killing God? Why even say “they can think for themselves”? Sure, they can, but does that mean we’re going to do whatever they want in life? They still need guidance. I don’t want to talk a lot, because I’m still trying to process everything. It simply is the fact that Phillip Pullman is taking the future (children) and attempting to turn them against God. I say, YES forget about the movie by avoiding it, and having a very Merry Christmas. By the way, I think chronicles of narnia are wonderful!
Just wanted to say to Francis, well said. Very well said.