by Phil Cooke, PhD
For most people, the idea of Hollywood being a mission field seems crazy—especially since the entertainment industry often calls to mind images of sex, violence and depravity. But the truth is, it’s probably the single greatest influence the world has ever known. That’s one of the reasons there are thousands of Christians working quietly (and not so quietly) in the mainstream entertainment industry, trying to make a difference in the quality, moral values, and direction of movies and television.
But while the major stories of Christian boycotts, controversy and condemnation of Hollywood sometimes make the headlines, few stories of hope ever do. And yet every day in Hollywood, Christians experience situations that are a great encouragement to the body of Christ.
One film crew member took the bold step of asking if she could pray with everyone before a big day at the studio. To her surprise, the series star stepped up and said, “I’ve always hoped someone would say that,” and the entire crew held hands and prayed.
God certainly can work through the movie and television industry, but we need your help.
Here’s what you can do to make a difference in Hollywood:
1) Consider Hollywood a mission field. We don’t boycott or humiliate a village in Africa because they don’t understand Christian values, so why do it to Hollywood? Let’s begin approaching Hollywood as a mission field—people who are made in the image of God but need to know about His loving plan for their lives.
2) Support films with Christian values. It’s absolutely critical that Hollywood studios realize there is an audience for films with a Christian worldview. I would especially urge you to see these movies on their opening weekend, since that’s when studios make the decision about how long the film stays in the theaters.
3) Pray for Christians in the industry. Every day Christians are working in an often hostile environment in a heroic effort to write, act, direct and produce stories that celebrate faith in God. But we can’t do it alone. We need the help of every Christian to provide the kind of prayer support that will open doors, soften hearts and sometimes make a way where there is no way. Find out how you can help at www.hollywoodprayernetwork.org.
4) Understand how the media can be used as a tool for evangelism. Enjoying Everyday Life is a great example of a Christian program that crosses over to the mainstream audience. That’s because Joyce understands the power of media and how effective it can be for reaching the culture. Movies, television and the Internet are the communication tools of this culture, and if the church doesn’t take them seriously, we’ll lose this generation.
Without a doubt, movies, TV programs and other types of entertainment coming from Hollywood are some of the most significant influences of global culture today. Therefore, as Christians we must learn to reach this industry with a message of hope. As we do, God will empower us to make the impact needed to really transform the world. 
