• Charlotte Observer, Monday, June 5, 2006 11:15 AM

Inspiration Networks hopes to use a little bit of entertainment to spread a whole lot of its version of Christianity, reports the Charlotte Observer. The company is breaking ground on a new 93-acre, $98 million "City of Light" headquarters that will contain a state-of-the-art media production and distribution facility. And while its programming is designed to spread the Word, it relies less on old-fashioned fire-and-brimstone than 21st-century bells and whistles. Some shows feature action sports like skateboarding and surfing along with music for teens, and there are religious cartoons for the youngest set. The company is also pioneering Christian programming for wireless devices, podcasts, and broadband outlets. "Part of our mission and vision is to be fishers of men, not just keepers of the aquarium," says CEO David Cerullo. He adds that religious programming is quickly recognized by many viewers who change the channel for something they perceive as more relevant or entertaining.

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