Watch Acts of God
- 2007
Acts of God is a compelling docuseries that explores the intersection of faith and natural disasters, examining how people of various religions cope in the aftermath of catastrophic events. The series is produced by BYUtv, a television network affiliated with Brigham Young University, a private university in Provo, Utah that is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Each episode of Acts of God features a different catastrophic event, from hurricanes and earthquakes to wildfires and tornadoes. Through interviews with survivors, emergency responders, and religious leaders, the series offers a unique perspective on the ways in which people turn to their faith to find hope and meaning in the face of devastation.
One of the strengths of Acts of God is its exploration of different faith traditions. While the series is produced by a Mormon-affiliated network and features interviews with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it also includes interviews with people from other religions, including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. This diversity adds richness and complexity to the series, as viewers see how different religious beliefs shape the way people respond to disaster.
Throughout the series, viewers are encouraged to consider their own beliefs and how they might respond in the face of a catastrophic event. The series does not aim to convert or persuade viewers, but rather to offer a glimpse into the ways in which religion can provide comfort and support in times of crisis.
One of the standout episodes of Acts of God is "The Fire That Changed Everything," which explores the deadly wildfire that swept through Paradise, California in November 2018. The episode follows residents of the town, many of whom lost their homes and loved ones in the fire, as they grapple with questions of faith and loss. The episode features interviews with local pastors and priests, who describe how they sought to provide support and comfort to their congregations in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Another powerful episode is "Puerto Rico's Hurricane Heartbreak," which examines the devastation wrought by Hurricane Maria in 2017. The episode features harrowing footage of the hurricane's aftermath, as well as interviews with residents who describe their struggles to find food, water, and shelter in the days and weeks after the storm. The episode also highlights the role of faith-based organizations in providing aid and support to residents, many of whom were left without power for months.
Overall, Acts of God is a poignant and thought-provoking series that offers a fresh perspective on how faith can sustain people in the midst of unimaginable tragedy. While the series is emotional and at times difficult to watch, it ultimately uplifts viewers with its message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.