Sunday night, televisions across America were tuned into a new Mark Burnett-produced series. But it wasn't what most people have come to expect from the man who is arguably the most successful reality television producer working today. Instead, he is bringing to life the best-selling, most influential book of all time: The Bible.

As several of the folks interviewed on the show indicate, the Amish people are held up by many as a stereotype of humble, innocent simplicity. And while this is true in many cases, there are also darker sides to the culture.

If characters of real religious faith were more frequently seen on film and television, we would have a much better chance of bridging our current cultural divides.

Laura Dern is one of the most respected and versatile film actresses in America. Her roles have included portrayals of "the every woman" to "the woman...