For generations, the relationship between the Christian community and Hollywood has largely been one of mistrust and enmity.  But a new organization hopes to change that. As1 launched today as a new non-profit which is dedicated to restoring the Church to its historically traditional role as a Patron of the Arts. As1 seeks to develop a genuine partnership between the Church and the influential artists of our time - the Entertainment community.

"For centuries, Christians were vibrant Patrons of the Arts commissioning the best artists to create some of the greatest art in human history which defined Christianity in a positive light." said Jonathan Bock, Founder of As1 and President of Grace Hill Media, "But along the way, we walked away from culture, allowed our faith to be portrayed in a negative light and, as a natural result, culture moved on without us." As1 intends to unite Christians to impact the culturally significant art of today - film, television and music - through its demographic size and collective buying power. "During the Renaissance, the Church rewarded artists with generous commissions." said Bock.  "We will do the same. We will reward the great artists who tell our stories, and they will make more."

Indeed, there is a coming wave of high-profile Bible projects in Hollywood's pipeline.  Heavyweights such as Will Smith, Darren Aronofsky, Steven Spielberg, Jeff Foxworthy, and Mark Burnett are in the midst of producing Biblically-based productions - some with budgets into the hundreds of millions of dollars.  "The Bible is, once again, going to be on the leading edge of pop culture," stated Bock. "What will we Christians do with this moment? Will we make these projects massive hits, which will undoubtedly preach the Gospel worldwide and assuredly lead to more such projects?  Or will we passively stand by and squander this extraordinary moment?  The stakes are high and it's up to us."

As1's goal is to not only prepare the Christian community for this coming wave, but to fundamentally change the relationship between Artists and the Church to one of genuine partnership and mutual respect. Unite for Good - As1

Go to www.As1.org to learn more about this transformational organization.