Comments that appeared on our Christian Blog

Lots of people responded when AMTC went publicly Christian. Following are a few of them.

SUZANNE MANSEAU GREEN SAID:

I am so blessed to be a part of the force of light and hope that AMTC is about. After losing both my parents withing the last 8 months, I cannot imagine what it would be like not having the faith and promise of being reunited with them. Because I am a Christian, I am comforted in knowing I will see them again. I am so excited about AMTC’s challenge and my own personal journey with this industry.

NISE’ DAVIES SAID:

For the past 20 years in the industry as an agency owner (sag/aftra), I have sought out opportunities in modeling and acting for the people I represent that will be profitable without compromising values. AMTC shares my Christian beliefs and values and truly provides a priceless opportunity for success to all.

ADAM SHE SAID:

Be thankful. These are my words of encouragement to all of those willing to hear. No matter what, there is always room for thanks. I have spoke with people who have been lied to, cheated, and given false hope only to find out that they have been taken- that their hopes and aspirations have been crushed by a careless person or organization trying to make a dollar. To those I’ve described, do not lose hope. Do not be discouraged. There are good people who can help keep your dream alive.

I personally have been going through a constant battle, fighting for what I know is right, yet I’m still associated with wrong doers. I have been preaching words of truth to a crowd that grows smaller. Many of those that listen continue to be doubtful? This is my struggle. I am not discouraged. I’m still thankful.

I’m thankful to have been given knowledge from people that know what is right. I’m fortunate to have the ability to share that knowledge with those that will listen. I’m truly blessed to be in a position where I can lead people on a positive path to pursue their calling, whatever it may be.

I second Carey’s call to action. Let us shed light on an industry that has been plagued by darkness. I welcome all who are thankful to show gratitude. AMTC needs you! The talent and modeling industry needs you! Let us show the world that goodness will prevail. I am thankful. Adam She (AMTC Director of Operation)

GRACE AND ROBERT MERRITT SAID:

We have always follwed in God’s light since our birth and were very fortunate to have found the same Christian values from the time we began our association with Millie Lewis in 1982 and as time followed, the continuation of those morales and ethics were carried on through her daughter’s leadership in the industry w/ AMTC. We are proud to be a part of the Millie Lewis family and trust in God to remain always in faith.

DONNA GROFF-WHEELER SAID:

The scripture says “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men. Colossians 3:23. As agency owners, my husband, Gary, and I are committed to serving Christ in the model/talent industry. I affirm that my life and my business are founded upon the principles of God’s word. AMTC has taken a bold step in reaching others for Christ. To God be the Glory! Donna Groff-Wheeler, AMTC National Scout and Regional Director

SCOTT KNAUSS SAID:

I applaud AMTC’s Leadership for bold words accompanied by even bolder steps in an industry (and world) that is quick to judge, quicker to condemn, and usually quiet to the Truth. God Bless all the talented individuals, directors, agents, families, sponsors and all those who are honoring God in their pursuit!

BRENDA STEPHENSON SAID:

AMTC is truly a blessing to so many people. It reaches deep inside of you and pulls out that inner beauty that you can only receive from your heavenly Father. Children today of all ages are trying so hard to be what others think they should be, speak what they are supposed to speak and look the way they think they are supposed to. AMTC reaches down deep inside of you no matter the age, no matter the race, no matter anything… and they bring out the real you the one that the potter created. ROMANS 9. 20-21. AMTC and its directors care and that is the difference between them and the others. They truly care and know who formed you and what beauty lies within you; they also know sometimes we all need a little help in pulling it out of us. The best part to everyone’s surprise- you never know what is going to come out. AMTC will always be a blessing to the one who never knew who they were until someone took the time to bring it out of them. Brenda

CHRISTIAN J. SAID:

I am so blessed to have so many professionals looking out for our interest. I thank God for Shannon, she has been a very special person in my life, she has positively encourage me throughout these months of hard work, she has been there with kind words and her smile motivates me to move on. Thanks Shannon, you have been inspirational and blessing in my life.

ROBIN JONES GIFFORD SAID:

Hi Carey,

I’m sure you don’t remember me. I was the Scouting Director for Elite NY in the 1980s – early 90s. Can you believe it’s been that long? Anyway, I just wanted to say that God is directing me back into this business (from Nebraska, if you can believe it!) and it is refreshing to see your post. Having accepted Christ in 1996, my life has certainly changed. And for the better.

I am so happy to see you profess your faith in your business. It makes me want to participate that much more. Hopefully, I’ll see you in Orlando with my group someday. Blessings to you, Robin

ANN MARIE FONTZ SAID:

My son, Denny, and I are looking forward to next week’s convention in Orlando. The Sunday afternoons for the last six months have been lots of fun and have given Denny good experience in preparing for the runway. We’ve made new friends and especially appreciated the feedback on those days Carey Arban and her two daughters were with us in Baltimore. Thanks for the pizza party on the last Sunday. Everyone has been great! We entered into AMTC on a leap of faith and I feel confident we’ve done the right thing. Thanks for everything. Ann Marie Fontz

SHELBY ALLEGOOD, TOUCH OF CLASS OWNER SAID:

Agencies search for beauty, talent, intellect, personality, and the “IT” Factor. Yes, all are very important; but, #1 on the checklist for Touch of Class is the Real Beauty that begins inside us, when we let the peace and pure love of God rule our hearts; that beauty radiates from within us, and touches others with warmth and light.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7.

I am thankful for AMTC and its focus on a quality event in a safe, family oriented, Christian environment. AMTC provides the career stepping-stones for success through seminars taught by professionals who work daily in a variety of markets in the entertainment and fashion industry. Contestants receive valuable information and guidelines. It’s an excellent educational investment, as well as career opportunities, and a chance to perform for top agencies from around the world in a safe environment. Now, that’s a “Win! Win!” situation.

ISAAC HALDEMAN SAID:

Well I have to say that AMTC is just awesome!! When I get on stage and talk about my faith In Christ….and have people burst into cheers…..that’s what makes it home to me. I know that in most other conventions that would not be looked at as a GOOD thing. When you keep God at the center he will be faithful and show his favor. AMTC has the right people with the right hearts behind it, so its going to do more than STAND UP…its going to conquer!!! Its a war out there!!! AMTC can join in the front line with Jesus!!!

CALEB PEARSON SAID:

Just wanted to say thanks for all you do. As a result of Rick/Kim Myers and the AMTC, We’re now living in Burbank, CA. My dad, brother, and I all competed in the January 2007 Convention in Orlando, FL. We were living in Ohio when we all were accepted for the competition. Out of the hundreds that auditioned in the 2 areas we auditioned (Columbus and Lima, OH), there were only a small percentage that were accepted, so we were excited. We were signed by The Wallis Agency. I’ve been on many, many auditions and callbacks, have done a PSA and a film. My brother is doing a lead role in a short film this weekend, and my father has also done a film. I also am a regular at LA Connection Comedy. Auditions are not easy to get here in Hollywood, and people are amazed at the number of auditions we get. (I did 6 last week, and had/have 2 callbacks as a result.) I’m making great connections and even friendships with casting directors, directors, and others in the industry. Above all, we are still able to keep Christ at the center of our lives. We attend a great church (where several others in the industry attend), and have many opportunities to express our faith to others. ~Caleb

KAREN BARNETTE SAID:

Dear Carey, I was going to write my director and pull my son out of the competions in January, after just watching a T.V. show on the dangers of being a child actor and stage parent. For some odd reason, my computer would not send the message to her. So I decided to visit the AMTC website, and read the comments that everyone had left. I was inspired by them. So often now I feel alone in my faith, in this world, and I was comforted by their comments. I have stayed with my son’s director although a couple others have contacted me, because she is a believer and good at what she does. Every profession needs believers. I feel better about him coming in January. Thank you for being a Christian too. KB