Another French Revolution
Sarah Hoffman, CBN News
They do not carry weapons or riot in the streets, but a band of new French revolutionaries are hoping to bring about positive change in their country. For decades, Christian organizations have faced opposition in France. From denied licence requests to strict fines for expressing their views, the believers are presented with many challenges.
Perhaps one of the biggest obstacles to Christians is that the French government requires all those receiving a broadcasting licence have extensive experience in the industry first. This of course complicates the task since few Christians already have that type of experience. But French believers are rising up to arm themselves with knowledge and experience.
To address this need a training conference for Christian broadcasters took place in Paris sponsored by Radio Vie Ile de France (R’VIF) and Sharing International.
About 40 participants attended from around the French speaking world! This included many countries in Africa: Angola, Madagascar, Congo and Ivory Coast. Each attendee has a unique calling to reach their own people for Christ using radio. A handful have already been able to establish licensed radio stations. Some broadcasters are just starting out. All are in need of prayer and encouragement.
Representing Sharing International, the teaching team included Chuck and Kathy Pollak - both of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and and Sarah Hoffman of CBN News. There was also a helpful session on the history of French broadcasting taught by Denis Steffen, the President of the RVIF and the Fédération des Radios et Télévisions Chrétiennes. The seminars covered the practical aspects of media management, radio broadcasting, announcing, journalism and fundraising.
Many of these aspiring Christian broadcasters have started web-casting their programmes while they wait as the government deliberates on giving them licenses for a frequency on the traditional radio dial. This way they get the
experience and on the job training the government requires. The irony is that the believers are finding a global audience. They are getting Emails from listeners from all over. Many in the French speaking world that may not have ever heard the Gospel are hearing it through the Internet!
The participants represented a patient, dedicated group of believers. Most of them have been waiting many years for government permission to broadcast the love of God over the airwaves. The French Christian broadcasters hope to bring the message that true liberty, equality and fraternity can only come through Jesus Christ. And they will not rest until that mission is accomplished.
Contact: info@sharingonline.org