The documentary Sounds of the Night portrays the Sidewalk Sunday School for kids on the streets of New York City as its main setting. It tells the story of Mirjam, a 21-year-old who decides to leave behind a traditional academic career in her safe home country of Finland and move to the ghettos of the largest city in the U.S.
In the unsafe boroughs of New York City, Mirjam begins working as part of the Metro World Child organization. This organization brings hope to inner-city children exposed to drugs, violence, crime, gangs, neglect, and poverty. The driving force behind their hectic work is the passion to share the love of God. Moreover, their work is filled with unexpected and ever-changing situations. Nevertheless, their goal remains to offer hope to these children. In Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, and other boroughs of the city, their Sidewalk Sunday Schools and visits bring hope for kids. As a result, children living in environments deemed hopeless by the police can experience new encouragement.
The documentary presents the journey of an ordinary young person making different choices. Furthermore, it portrays Mirjam’s unique path. The film captures the pain of leaving behind a familiar life. At the same time, it shows the joy of giving love and experiencing the rewards of sacrifice.
Sounds of the Night was filmed in infamous neighborhoods of New York City, as well as in Finland. Therefore, it connects two different worlds. It focuses on Mirjam’s departure from her home country. In addition, the film follows her life as a volunteer Sidewalk Sunday School teacher for Metro World Child.
Metro World Child is one of the ten largest Christian organizations in the world. The global organization was founded about 40 years ago in the heart of Brooklyn, New York. Today, its headquarters remain there. Furthermore, the organization now operates in a total of 13 countries worldwide. The documentary also includes a personal story of Pastor Bill Wilson, the founder and leader of Metro World Child.
Production Details
Name: Sound of the Night
Directing: Mika and Ruut Ahonen
Interviewees: Mirjam Mielikäinen, Bill Wilson, Esko and Aili Mielikäinen
Language: English and Finnish (subtitled: in Finnish, Swedish and Spain dubbed: Russia)
Lenght: 28 minutes
Published: 2014
Producer: Mika Ahonen
Production: Hurttimurtti
- Further information about Metro World Child: www.metroworldchild.org