With primary elections just around the corner, and a general election and Presidential election coming in November, what better time to review the basics of American citizenship, or perhaps learn some less-familiar ones, including the biblical basis for our Constitution and the freedoms we enjoy as U.S. citizens? Freedom Encounter Theater, located at 3220 Falls Parkway in Branson, is offering an amazing opportunity this summer to do just that.
On Saturday, June 27, Freedom Encounter Theater hosted a “Biblical Citizenship Day,” featuring video sessions with Rick Green, founder of Patriot Academy, and actor Kirk Cameron. In his video appearance, Cameron shared that after becoming a parent, he realized his children and their peers would face a bleak future if citizens don’t act now to make sure government and elected officials are held accountable to the Constitution.
This one-day “turbo edition” of the complete Patriot Academy course presents an overview of history, including the years of preparation the Pilgrims put into studying how a government should function. Long before setting sail on the Mayflower, the group studied the foundations of personal freedom based on the Bible’s references about good and bad government.
The class reviews how the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution reflect those same principles of personal liberty, reinforcing the teaching with stunning excerpts from historical writings and photos of Independence Hall. The day’s sessions were facilitated by Brian Rohlman, a local area resident and veteran who is also a trained Constitution coach with Patriot Academy and Turning Point USA.
Two additional Citizenship Day events are scheduled: Saturday, July 27, and Saturday, August 31. Each day’s session begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m., including a performance of the Freedom Journey Show. Cost is just $20 for adults and $10 for ages 19 and under. Concessions are available and free coffee is included.
Those attending the July 27 Citizenship Day will have a special treat, as artist Jack Dawson will be on hand for a 1 p.m. meet and greet held between the class sessions and the show performance. Dawson operated an art gallery at Silver Dollar City for many years, and is well-known for his patriotic paintings including “If My People,” which portrays the hands of Jesus mending a tattered American flag. He now maintains Bittersweet Gallery online, and some of his art is available at the Freedom Encounter gift shop.
Attendees at the June session were unanimous in their agreement that they learned some important connections between the responsibilities of citizenship, personal faith and the faith of the Founders. Now more than ever, it is vital for citizens to educate themselves on these underlying principles and be prepared to live and defend a faith that is foundational to freedom and justice in the public sphere. Visit www.freedomencounter.com to reserve your spot in one of these valuable classes!
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