Uplifting Screening of Mission: Joy Brings Audience to Tears
The Mosaic Film Experience, Kaufman Interfaith Institute, Founders Brewing Co., and Celebration Cinema Studio Park collaborated to host an exclusive screening of Mission: Joy – Finding Happiness in Troubled Times on November 3.
This inspirational film explored the remarkable friendship between Archbishop Desmond Tutu and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. These influential world leaders came from divergent backgrounds with different religious beliefs but that didn’t stop them from becoming fast friends.“We often associate joy as the act of being happy or merely having a positive outlook. Mission: Joy is a laugh-out-loud, yet deeply moving film, that reminds us that everyone will experience troubles in life, but true joy can often be found in our journey of working through adversity,” said Skot Welch, Founder, Mosaic Film Experience.
The screening kicked off with a short conversation between Skot Welch and award-winning photographer, Jane Feldman. Jane shared her personal story of working with these two beloved icons and how their relationship not only moved her but inspired her to use her gift of photography to bring about social change.“Archbishop Desmond Tutu taught me that in order to make a difference, you have to do what you’re meant to do,” said Jane. “If you’re good with kids, teach. If you have a fat checkbook, write checks. There are people out there who could use help. If we all do what it is we’re supposed to do, we’re going to be fine.”
Throughout the film, viewers are treated to never-before-seen footage of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and His Holiness the Dalai Lama meeting for the first time and traveling to each other over the years to continue their friendship. We are even given a glimpse into each world leader's religion and watch as they both participate in each other's religious rituals to show acceptance and understanding.
“I worked with Archbishop Desmond Tutu and His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Seattle, Washington at a conference on compassion,” said Jane. “When you watch the two of them together, you really see how their bond is beyond their differences. It’s all about kindness and compassion.”The audience was moved to tears more than once throughout the film. One of the most profoundly impactful scenes was watching young students become emotional in the presence of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and then be comforted and encouraged by the two icons. The moment really illustrated the significance of being kind and compassionate to others.You can watch Mission: Joy – Finding Happiness in Troubled Timeshere.