Count down video segments are useful for coordinating the showing of a video with another event. In the motion picture industry, they were originally used to synchronize the sound with the picture (i.e. when they were on separate media.) Here is an example of a 10 second count:

Is there any point in including this type of segment in production video clips? Or is it just an annoyance? What do you think?

At Easter time, we look for ways to reenact the Passion of Christ. In so doing, we gain new appreciation for the Way of the Cross. Jesus walked that way, knowing full well that death waited for Him at the end of it. And more excruciating still, He knew that one of His own, Judas Iscariot, would betray Him.

Bringing the Crucifixion to life has been the subject of many movies. The sophistication of computer graphics can take us there – at least visually. But some would raise a concern about the gory nature of the crucifixion. After all, the Romans perfected the art of brutal torture and death. The barbarity of the cross is incredible. How far should the Church go in showing the gory parts of the Crucifixion? To a culture that is in many ways innoculated against violence, this may not seem like much. But to those who are trying to stem the tide of violence in our culture, it may be a big deal. We need to approach the subject of Good Friday with sensitive hearts and open minds.

Everyone seems to be security conscious these days. And you even have to be concerned about security in the Church – of all places! Because our doors are open to the public, anyone can walk in. And that means the sinners and the criminals get to come in the door. With all of the news lately about incidents within the Church, you need a security policy. And the support staff needs a certain amount of training in handling security situations. Here is one article on designing such a policy:

Drawing the Line on Danger

The article shares some practical ideas about how to handle those with malevolent intentions who show up at Church.