No Bright Lights

Can giving to the poor sometimes do more harm than good? Subtitled “A Redefining Insight Into Effectively Serving the Poor,” this Christian faith-based program emphasizes that cultivating real relationships with those in need can be far more powerful than simply throwing money at the problem of poverty. Members of NetWorks Romania—an interdenominational group working in the northwestern part of Romania—believe that taking serious time to understand the challenges faced by those who are extremely impoverished is an approach that hews closer to the ideals of Jesus, arguing that the “hit and run” methodology used by some organizations creates a relationship between those served and the food or money offered, instead of a link between people. Combining interviews with NetWorks Romania missionaries and those they serve (and live amongst), No Bright Lights illustrates the positive cumulative effects of the group's methods—from bootstrap efforts to more enduring support. For them, missions represent a long-term undertaking that involves becoming immersed in another realm in order to truly understand local problems—and help create solutions that might endure. An illuminating and inspiring documentary, this is highly recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)