HUNTINGTON -- A local filmmaker and a Marshall University graduate are screening their documentary, "Adopt a Jesus" at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, in Smith Hall 154.

Bob Wilkinson and producer Charessa Wilkinson, a Marshall grad, focus the documentary on Brandt Russo, a young minister from Louisiana who quits his job, sells his earthly goods and dedicates his life to helping the homeless and ministering to the poor.

Russo travels the country in a bus powered by cooking oil and an emblazoned slogan, "Can't Ignore the Poor."

"Adopt a Jesus" raises challenging questions about the place of the homeless and disadvantaged in society and about the Christian response to their plight.

Bob Wilkinson traveled with Russo for 14 days on his bus, following his journey, interviewing the people he encounters, learning about his philosophy and documenting his message, his unorthodox ministry, and the mixed reactions of locals to his presence in their communities.

Bob Wilkinson is a producer and editor at West Virginia Public Broadcasting. He has produced several previous documentaries including, "Rounding Third," a history of the Watt Powell minor league ballpark; "John Brown's Body," a look at the lasting legacy of John Brown's raid in Harpers Ferry; and "hom'sted," a history of the homestead movement in West Virginia and those left out of the New Deal initiative.

Charessa Wilkinson earned an master's degree in communication studies in 2001 and has since worked as a producer, promoter and event coordinator.

She and Russo plan to attend the screening on campus and discuss their work with the audience following the screening.

Attendance is free and open to the public. They are asking those who come to donate a winter coat as part of a coat drive if they can.

National Video

Courtesy of www.myspace.com/adoptajesusfilm

The documentary film "Adopt-A-Jesus" will be shown at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, in room 154 of Smith Hall on Marshall University's Huntington campus.

Purchase this photo