November 24, 2008

CHICAGO – "In God's Name," a prime time television special featuring the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), and president of the Lutheran World Federation, is now available on DVD. The 90-minute DVD includes bonus material.

"As I have traveled throughout the ELCA this past year, I have heard repeatedly words of gratitude for ‘In God's Name.' The appreciation expressed is for how we as Lutherans are being recognized for who we are and for the many ways we serve the gospel and our neighbors," said Hanson.

"‘In God's Name' is an invitation to reflect upon what it means to live as Lutheran Christians in a world of many religions. It is a marvelous resource for conversations in homes and churches. (My wife) Ione and I were honored to be included in this portrayal of the lives of global religious leaders," Hanson said.

Produced by French filmmakers Jules and Gedeon Naudet, "In God's Name" explores the "complex questions of our time through the intimate thoughts and beliefs of 12 of the world's most influential spiritual leaders," according to a CBS news release. The program aired on the CBS Television network Dec. 23, 2007.

The Naudet brothers were caught in the collapse of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Jules was shooting inside when the South Tower fell. "On Sept. 11 we faced death and thought we had lost each other," said Jules Naudet. "This harrowing experience was the first step in a journey that would take us around the world, searching for answers to the meaning of life."

According to Ava Odom Martin, director for public media, ELCA Communication Services, the program marks the first time that "some of the world's religious leaders appeared together in one broadcast." The leaders speak out about violence and hatred and reveal their own thoughts about faith, peace, unity, tolerance and hope. Viewers will see the leaders in their homes and personal places of worship.

Martin said the DVD can be ordered on National Geographic's Online Store at http://shop.nationalgeographic.com/product/1063/4805/128.html, on the Internet. She said National Geographic also published the book, "In God's Name: Wisdom From the World's Great Spiritual Leaders," by Jules Naudet, Gedeon Naudet, Virginie Luc and Stephan Crasneanscki.

Starting Dec. 16, 2008, the DVD will be made available at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/, http://www.amazon.com/, and other major retail outlets, said Martin, adding that the ELCA has developed a study guide about "In God's Name," available for download at http://www.ELCA.org/InGodsName/, on the church's Web site. A video clip of the program is also available on the ELCA's Web site.

Information about the Rev. Mark S. Hanson is at http://www.ELCA.org/bishop/, on the ELCA Web site.

ELCA News Service