The kids of Jesus Camp, 10 years later: ‘Was it child abuse? Yes and no’

The controversial 2006 documentary about an evangelical church camp outraged secular audiences, but its subjects have mixed memories.

Ten-year-old Andrew Sommerkamp, with his shy demeanor and floppy blond hair, mounts the stage of the Kids On Fire church camp, and nervously tells the crowd that he’s struggling with his belief in God. He’d spent days watching his fellow Christian campers weep uncontrollably, repenting and begging God’s forgiveness, and he has a confession to share.

Levi O’Brien was 12 years old when he was featured in Jesus Camp. Camp activities included protesting abortion outside the supreme court. Photograph: Courtesy of Loki Films