USA (MNN) — World Evangelical Alliance is co-sponsoring a film called "THE BETTER HOUR: The Legacy of William Wilberforce." The film is set to be shown on American public television in February.
Wilberforce was a British parliamentarian who launched 69 organizations for the betterment of society as well as helped end the trans-Atlantic slave trade. The film portrays his strength of character and his love for humanity. Poet William Cowper described Wilberforce's character and sense of justice as "the better hour."
The one-hour documentary commemorates the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade. WEA International Director Geoff Tunnicliffe said that the film helps them fulfill one of their top priorities — "to engage the culture with a message that can bring together both Christians and non-believers to create better communities around the world."
A related book and study guide includes a foreword by Rick Warren that says, "Today, the world needs a new generation of people like Wilberforce."
A one-hour broadcast featuring Tunnicliffe and others will present ideas on how to engage culture using THE BETTER HOUR services and products. Tunnicliffe encourages communities to have community wide screenings of the film with discussions afterward. This may result in commitments and inspire people to collaborate to launch new projects. Go here for more information to do this.