I miss going to the movies. Not that I went to many. But on occasion, I enjoyed a bag of popcorn in a dark theater while watching the latest thriller or comedy.
There are a number of recent movies worth watching at the end of the week when the dishes are done and the homework wrapped up.
In 1917, three shepherd children near the Portuguese city of Fatima witnessed apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mother. A new film “Fatima” tells the miraculous story.
Some of the recent family-friendly movies: "Abominable," "Breakthrough", "Dora and the Lost City of Gold," and "Little Women".
Some of the recent movies of inspiration: "The Farewell," "1917," “Silence,” “The Two Popes,” "The Peanut Butter Falcon," and the documentaries "Just Mercy” and “Pope Francis: A Man of His Word.”
The US bishops’ website has movie reviews. Unlike Rotten Tomatoes, the reviewer tells parents if the film is suitable for young children or if it is objectionable (i.e., moral garbage). It points out themes of faith and morals. https://www.catholicnews.com/fatima/
If you have a computer but do not have Netflix, you can find on FORMED movies as well as books, Spanish offerings, Bible studies and faith enrichment that feed the soul. Visit www.nativitylongwood.formed.org and enter code PNV8VT. It’s like Catholic Netflix. Free to parishioners.
A couple dozen parishioners met several times in August in study groups to reflect on the bishops’ pastoral letter on racism, “Open Wide Our Hearts.” Some met online. Some met in person. (Heads up: we are forming study groups to reflect on the bishops’ pastoral letter on political participation, “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.”)
When asked about movies that addressed racism and social justice, they recommended “Schindler’s List.” Millions of Jewish people suffered genocide at the hands of Nazi Germany. Some individuals, though, like the businessman Oskar Schindler had a change of heart and helped them. Not a movie for small children.
Another person recommended “Amistad,” a Stephen Spielberg historical drama based on the true events in 1839 aboard the slave ship La Amistad. Tribesmen abducted for the slave trade took control of the ship, triggering an international legal battle.
I was moved by the documentary “Emanuel.” It captured the faith response to the massacre of nine Black church members by a white teenager. Against all odds, it was inspiring. Not for young children.
“America” magazine has more suggestions. https://www.americamagazine.org/arts-culture/2020/08/07/your-guide-social-justice-films-netflix-amazon-and-hulu?utm_source=piano&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=4881&pnespid=0.F.q.VRBA_NKxS_9vY_HTxTGUfhQrNHxBfrOwCo
Let me know what movies move you to faith and justice!
In Christ,
Father David
NATIVITY UPDATE
Calling all men of Nativity!
TMIY: The Fight of Faith begins on September 17. "The Fight of Faith" equips and enables men to engage in the cosmic, spiritual battle raging in our day. Biblical identities will emerge to inspire heroic lives of service to a calling greater than ourselves. Uncover the ultimate truth that sheds light on all things: God’s own identity. Fight the good fight of faith to win an imperishable crown of glory. Join us for fellowship and faith on Zoom, Thursday mornings at 7:00 AM. All men are welcome. Learn more about That Man Is You (TMIY) at www.nativity.org/adult-faith-formation.