MAKE HER KNOWN CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP

MAKE HER KNOWN CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP ICON OF LOVE

on: June 26, 2019

By Meanne M. Mijares

Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Baclaran houses the famous and biggest shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help in the world and its revered icon. It is one of the most popular and phenomenal Catholic devotions in the country, next to Jesus, the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila and aside from the Holy Rosary. The church is filled to the brim with so many people hearing mass at every hour, attending the weekly Wednesday novena, lighting assorted candles at the candle chapel, praying in quiet corners holding their rosaries, novenas and stampitas, crying while others are walking towards the main altar using their knees withstanding the pain through it all not to mention touching the tabernacle. I have seen devotees, rich and poor, famous celebrities and ordinary folk, board exam takers, writing their petitions and dropping them off in a big box while some are putting letters of thanksgiving in another box as well. This scene would always come to mind as I recall visiting the shrine with my family in 2002.

It is the only shrine in Metro Manila that is open 24/7/365 or 366 to its fervent devotees, including its Adoration Chapel. In most Catholic churches and homes, there is an image of the Mother of Perpetual Help and copies of novenas which are being held every Wednesday.

The faith of the devotees is amazingly strong indeed. People within or outside Metro Manila come in droves for their panata or vow to visit the shrine every Wednesday or any other day to express their thanksgiving for the answered prayers they have received while others are confident that their requests (spiritual and temporal) will be granted by Our Lord through His Mother’s intercession. The Shine receives 1,432 petition letters and 232 thanksgiving letters on a monthly basis. The number of devotees visiting the shine kept on increasing by the day, even reaching up to 500,000!

I remember my late grandmother taught me to pray this novena and practice this devotion while growing up, which I still do even to this day. What piqued my curiosity is the icon. I was strongly drawn to it. The story behind the miraculous image is very fascinating. I kept on bugging my Lola Meding (Remedios) about it. But she kept on telling me to have recourse to our Lady in all our needs. Before she passed away in June 23, 1988, she gave me a copy of the novena which I will always cherish though I have purchased a new copy. Our Lady was kind enough to help me find out to know the back story and the description of the icon which I now share it with you.

A merchant from the island of Crete got the picture of the Blessed Mother from one of the churches there and hid it among his personal belongings and embarked on a sailing vessel. During the voyage, a terrible storm arose and raged so fiercely that the ship was in danger. The sailors, unaware that the miraculous picture was on board, prayed to God and the Blessed Mother to save them. Their prayers were answered and the boat safely reached the port.

Devotees of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Baclaran Church, Paranaque City

A year later, the merchant went to Rome with the picture. He suddenly became very ill and asked his Roman friend who hosted him for a final request. He told him about the picture that he had taken from a certain church. The merchant explained where he had hidden the picture and instructed the Roman host to place it in a church so it could be venerated. After the merchant’s death, the Roman got the picture and took it home. His wife saw the painting and told him not to part with it. He placed it in their bedroom where it remained for almost a year. The Blessed Virgin appeared to him twice and asked him to bring the image to a more honorable place but failed to address Her request. For the third time, She appeared to the Roman and asked him the same thing and warned him that if he did not take heed to Her request, he will die. The man got frightened. He told his wife about the vision and begged her to take the picture to a church. But his wife refused and allowed his wife to have her way. For the fourth time, Our Lady appeared to the Roman and told him that since he has preferred to obey his wife instead of Her, he shall die, that She may find a more honorable place. With this warning, the Roman suddenly fell very ill and died after a short while. The Blessed Virgin then appeared to the six-year old daughter of the couple and told her, “Go to your mother and grandmother and say to them, the Holy Mary of Perpetual Help bids you to take Her from your home, otherwise you will both die suddenly.” The child’s mother got frightened when she heard this message and since she had a similar vision, she realized that she had been the cause of her husband’s death. A neighbor, who saw her weeping because of her disobedience to the Holy Mother of God told her that it was foolish to believe in such things and advised her to burn the picture. That same evening, the neighbor upon returning home was suddenly attacked by a strange malady but because he repented, she was cured immediately.

For the second time, the Blessed Virgin appeared to the little girl and told her to tell her mother to put the picture to St. Mary Major and St. John Lateran in the one dedicated to St. Matthew the Apostle. Now finally convinced, the widow saw the miracles she had seen brought the picture to the said church and was taken care of by the Augustinian friars.

The day happen to fall on a Holy Wednesday-a day which special indulgence could be gained by visiting the church, so many people were present to see the holy image brought to the shrine chosen by the Blessed Virgin Herself. On that very same day, a man whose right arm was paralyzed touched this same day, was instantly cured. With this miracle, confidence in the Mother of Perpetual Help was immediately inspired.

Since then, on a daily basis, large crowds flock to the Church on the Esquiline Hill and there a tablet beside the miraculous picture they read how the Blessed Virgin Mary Herself had chosen the sanctuary of Her shrine and gave Herself the title of Holy Mary of Perpetual Help. Nobody knows what the title of Miraculous Picture of the Mother of Perpetual Help.

The name of the image has spread throughout the entire Christian world. Practically unknown in the 1800’s today it is seen and loved and venerated everywhere and in our days have been granted by Our Lady when invoked under this title.

When the Redemptorist Fathers came to the Philippines in 1906, they put up Her shrine in Baclaran, Manila. Here, they have an authentic copy of the miraculous picture in Rome.

The Baclaran Church which houses the shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Paranaque City

DESCRIPTION OF THE ICON

The original picture of Our Mother of Perpetual Help is painted on a gold background. It is very impressive and must have been the work of a devout and skillful artist. The style, which is Grecian or Byzantine proves that it must have come from the East. Experts agree that it must have been painted in the 13^th or 14^th century. The painting shows our Blessed Mother in a half figure holding Her Divine Son with Her left arm and drawing Him closer to Her to assure Him of Her protection. Our Lord Jesus, in full figure, is afraid and tightly holds her right hand with His two little hands. Our Blessed Mother’s eyes are gazing upon the devotees with a loving but earnest expression and seems to express her soul’s anguish at the suffering of Her Son, Jesus. Inscriptions are written on either side of her head. There are four Greek letters which are the first and last letters of the Greek words, Mother of God. Our Lord Jesus as an Infant has one of His sandals on while the other hangs loose. Over His left shoulders are seen the letters ICXC the first and last letters for two Greek words means Jesus Christ. Two angels bearing the instruments has the initial letters in Greek which means Michael the Archangel, presents the lance, reed and sponge to the Holy Child which signals His future passion and death on the Cross, while the one on the left holds up before His gaze, four nails and a Cross, with two beams as well as the tablet of the inscription; above him are the initials in Greek which stands for Gabriel the Archangel.    

Loving Mother, help us and pray for us!

References:

To know more about the history of the miraculous icon, you may check out this link:

http://www.baclaranchurch.org/story.html

Here are lists of to-do’s for the devotees while they are visiting the shrine:

http://www.baclaranchurch.org/tips.html

Here is some trivia to add a little flavorful spice to the Baclaran phenomenon:

http://www.baclaranchurch.org/trivia.html

Here are some of the testimonials gathered from the devotees that are truly worth sharing:

http://www.baclaranchurch.org/testimonials.html

http://www.filcatholic.org/make-her-known-celebrating-the-feast-of-our-mother-of-perpetual-help-icon-of-love/

5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS IN THE MONTH OF JUNE

on: June 07, 2019

SACRED HEART OF JESUS

Meanne M. Mijares

Did you know that the month of June is the traditional month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus? While it’s easier to remember a month like May—the month of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Mother’s Day—sometimes we have a tendency to forget about the other months of the year. Now let me share with you a few meaningful ways and ideas we celebrate the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in June.

With the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus settling on June 28th this year, you can start doing small but special things running up to its feast day. Are you ready? Here are five ways to get you into the spirit of the day/month.

1. Make an enthronement of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Do you have an image of the Sacred Heart in your home? Is it blessed? If not, you may consider doing an Enthronement. It is one of the easiest and best ways to show your devotion to the Sacred Heart. After all, Jesus told St. Margaret Mary, “I will bless every dwelling where an image of My Heart is both exposed and honored.”

To do it is quite simple. You should go to Mass and receive the Eucharist the day of the enthronement, get an image of the Sacred Heart that is clean and blessed if the priest won’t be there at the ceremony, have the enthronement ceremony with your family present, and then you see and experience the graces flow into your home. It’s best still to have a priest do the ceremony but the head of the household can also do it if you’re unable to get a priest to do it.

2. Start a First Friday Devotion

If you already haven’t tried it, begin the Nine First Friday Devotion to the Heart of Jesus. What exactly does this involve? You will need to receive Holy Communion and recite the Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on each First Friday for nine consecutive Fridays. What will you receive in return? To quote Our Lord (to St. Margaret Mary),

“I promise you, in the excessive mercy of my Heart that my all-powerful love will grant to all those who receive Holy Communion on the first Friday for nine consecutive months, the grace of final repentance; they shall not die in my disgrace nor without receiving the sacraments; my divine Heart shall be their safe refuge in that last moment.”

3. Make an Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Find yourself feeling overwhelmed with the possibility of being busy this month? Consider doing the Act of Reparation on the solemnity. Yes, there are indulgences attached to it. For a single recitation, there is an indulgence of 300 days. A plenary indulgence is given once per month if done as part of the first Friday devotion.

Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus (official text)

Most sweet Jesus, You have bestowed on men the benefits of Your charity, but their ingratitude only responds with forgetfulness, negligence and spite. Thus here we prostrate ourselves before Your altar, inspired by the desire to make reparation through a special homage for their culpable indifference and the outrages which, in all ways, they oppress Your most loving Heart.

Nevertheless, we remember that we ourselves have been guilty of unworthy conduct in the past, and filled with profound sorrow, we implore Your mercy for us first of all. By voluntary expiation, we are ready to atone for the faults we have committed, ready also to expiate for those who, led astray from the way of salvation and remaining obstinate in their infidelity, refuse to follow You, their Shepherd and chief, thus throwing off the yoke of Your law and trampling the promises of their Baptism.

We would like to expiate for too many lamentable faults, making reparation for each of the following: our disorderly conduct, indecent fashions, scandalous corruption of innocent souls, profanation of Sundays and feasts, detestable blasphemies against You and against Your Saints, insults to your Vicar and to Your priests, reckless violations and odious sacrileges to the divine Sacrament of Your love, and finally the public sins of nations who revolt against the rights and authority of Your Church.

If only we could erase so many offenses with our own blood! At the least we wish to make reparation to Your outraged honor. We present to You even the satisfaction that You have offered to Your Father on the Cross, and the offering You have renewed each day on the altar. We present that sacrifice to You, accompanied with all the acts of atonement made by the Most Holy Virgin Your Mother, the Saints, and by faithful Christians. We promise You with all of our hearts, with the help of Your grace, to use all our means to do penance for our past faults and those of our neighbor. By the fervor of our faith, the purity of our life, and by perfect docility to the precepts of the Gospel, we desire to atone for the indifference toward such a great love, to which belongs all charity. We also promise You to make every effort to spare You new offenses and to lead the most souls possible to follow You.

Agreed, we offer You in this matter, O most good Jesus, by the intercession of the gracious Virgin Mary, Reparatrix, this spontaneous homage of expiation. Guard us until death, keeping us unshakably faithful to our duty and to Your service. Accord to us this precious gift of perseverance, which leads us finally to our native land where, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, You reign, God, forever and ever. Amen.

Indulgence of 300 days. Plenary indulgence one time per month for the customary recitation (with confession, communion and visit to a church). For public recitation on the Feast of the Sacred Heart. Indulgence of seven years and 280 days, and a plenary indulgence for those who confess and receive communion.

(Source: https://www.ewtn.com/series/pilgrims/ep9_act.htm)

4. Make a 9-day Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and visit our Eucharistic Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.

You can make the novena on your own or attend a novena in your parish or any Catholic church. On those days, make a good confession, do works of charity and visit our Lord in the Adoration Chapel. Attend the Fiesta Mass (it is considered a High Mass) and receive Holy Communion. After receiving  Holy Communion. you pray,” Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, may the whole world burn with love for You!”

5. Distribute novenas and leaflets to spread devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

You may purchase copies of the novena and stampitas in Catholic bookstores and give it to your friends and loved ones or even strangers. This will encourage them to pray and have a fervent devotion as well to our Lord and His Most Sacred Heart.

However you may choose to celebrate the June month (or just the solemnity itself), may the Sacred Heart of Jesus stir up our hearts with love for Him.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You!

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, may Your Kingdom come!

http://www.filcatholic.org/5-ways-to-celebrate-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus-in-the-month-of-june/

CELEBRATING FRIENDSHIPS WITH MAN'S BEST FRIEND ANEW WITH A DOG'S JOURNEY

A TEAR-JERKING SEQUEL ON EMPATHY AND PERSEVERANCE FILM REVIEW ON A DOG’S JOURNEY

on: June 04, 2019

Meanne M. Mijares

Cast

Marg Helgenberger as Hannah

Betty Gilpin as Gloria

Henry Lau as Trent

Kathryn Prescott as CJ

Dennis Quaid as Ethan

Josh Gad as Bailey, Molly, Big Dog and Max

Directed by  Gail Mancuso 

Screenplay by W. Bruce Cameron & Cathryn Michon and Maya Forbes & Wally Wolodarsky 

Based on the novel by W. Bruce Cameron 

Distributed by Universal Pictures/ Entertainment One Films

Rating PG

Story

A Dog’s Journey is the sequel to 2017’s sentimental A Dog’s Purpose (which I have also reviewed for FilCatholic also in the same year), both of which are based on W. Bruce Cameron’s best-selling books about a dog that has come back to life over and over again with the purpose of finding a particular human being to defend and unconditionally love. This time around, Ethan encourages his beloved dying dog, Bailey to return to find his granddaughter, Clarity June (CJ).  I am happy to report that there is less violence in this film, but there is still an alcoholic, neglectful parent (this time a mother) and an abusive boyfriend who literally crashes intentionally into his ex-girlfriend on. Another boyfriend is verbally belittling and seizes his girlfriend. And yes, of course the central dog dies – about four times (an elderly St. Bernard/Australian shepherd mix, a female beagle, a mastiff,   a Yorkshire terrier)because of sickness, old age, and accidents. But here, couples don’t do much more than hug and kiss, and language is passive (“idiot,” “stupid”). As in the first movie, there are strong messages about compassion and friendship, as well as the power of having a pet with whom we, humans share unconditional love.

Positive Messages

There are strong messages about the life-changing bond, unconditional love, and connection between dogs and their humans. It reminded me again of Cookie, her daughter Chloe, her sister Miranda, her grandchildren Hugo and Heidi, then Samantha, her mother Gay, our rescued dog Tyra, our first family dog, Boogie, Boldie, Janjan and Gabon how much I love and cherish them so as I am  increasingly enjoying the bond I have now with Gabriel and King (a parvovirus survivor). The film upholds the thought that people aren’t meant to go through life all by themselves and that they’re even happier and more fulfilled with both human partners and animal friends.

Positive Role Models

Ethan and Hannah are truly wonderful role models: kind, helpful, disciplined, loving as they both were in the first movie, “A Dog’s Purpose”. They both take good care of Bailey and CJ. Bailey, who gets reincarnated as Molly, Big Dog and Max always believes his/her purpose is to defend, protect, and love his/her human companions, never ceases looking for or protecting his/her human. CJ is lonely at times but loves her dog and her best friend, Trent, who’s supportive, generous and very encouraging. Gloria is an intoxicating and neglectful mother but eventually comes into her senses then takes charge and asks for pardon.

Violence

On various occasions, a dog passes on. In one particularly painful scene, which is quite heartbreaking for me, is when Bailey dies in Ethan’s arms receiving a euthanizing shot. Another version of Bailey as Molly dies in an accident while others die of old age. An abusive boyfriend deliberately smashes into his ex-girlfriend’s car. Another boyfriend is verbally condescending, snatches his girlfriend. An older adult dies hemmed in by people (and pet) he loves. A boozy mom is negligent, leaving her daughter to fend for herself most of the time. A girl is terrified of a storm, distressed that her mother isn’t around to comfort her.

Sex

A married couple embraces each other, dances and briefly kisses which is normal. What I find intolerable and distasteful is that teens make out in a car. From Bailey’s viewpoint, a young couple “licks each other’s faces” — like Ethan and Hannah used to when they were younger. At one point, Bailey relates, “They look like they want to lick each other.”

Language

Intermittent language includes a few uses of “idiot,” “dumb,” and “stupid.” Gloria tosses the word “chubby” like an insult. “Oh my God” is used as an expletive.  

Drinking & Drugs

There is the presence of Gloria, who’s nearly most of the time shown in the movie holding a glass of wine or a cocktail in her hand. She’s clearly an alcoholic and is often blitzed. Shane is evidently a drug dealer — he trades cash for small packets at a party!

CONCLUSION

This sentimental sequel is a fitting homage to the durable bond between dogs and their human best friends. Veteran TV director Gail Mancuso continues Lasse Hallstrom’s emotional touch with the story, which shifts from focusing on Ethan to CJ. The CJ plot is less violent than younger Ethan’s, but it’s still filled with heartbreak, a parent’s substance exploitation, grief, and seclusion (save for all-time friend Trent). Betty Gilpin, I must say, is well cast as a selfish, disinterested mother Gloria who cares more about warning her daughter about the dangers of getting “chubby” than actually parenting her. Kathryn Prescott is credible as a vulnerable, unfulfilled young woman whose utmost comfort has always come from her beloved dog. And Henry Lau is almost too good to be true as the heartfelt adult version of Trent. Josh Gad’s voice is eager and steadfast as the many personifications of Bailey, and, unlike in the first film, A Dog’s Journey, movie goers stay with the same family of dog owners throughout the story (with the exception of one fast detour, though). This movie absolutely and efficiently tugs right at the heartstrings, so pet lovers in particular should expect a lot of tears to flow at the numerous fond and sensitive moments between CJ and Ethan and their dogs. There’s even a subplot about one of the dogs being able to reveal cancer by scent alone, an aptitude a dog can also later show — with life-saving outcomes. For dog lovers, this is a movie that avows the connection between humans and dogs; for others, it’s a saccharine take on some grave matters. 

Overall, I give a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars. Or should I say paws.

http://www.filcatholic.org/a-tear-jerking-sequel-on-empathy-and-perseverance-film-review-on-a-dogs-journey/

YOUR WISH IS MY COMMAND! A FILM REVIEW ON ALADDIN 2019

A MAGICAL STORY OF COURAGE AND INTEGRITY FILM REVIEW ON ALADDIN

on: May 27, 2019

Meanne M. Mijares

“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”

 Proverbs 11:3 (NIV)

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

John 8:32 (NIV)

Directed by      Guy Ritchie

Produced by    Dan Lin/Jonathan Eirich

Screenplay by   John August/Guy Ritchie

Based on Disney’s Aladdin by Ron Clements, John Musker, Ted Elliott, Terry Rossio

Aladdin and the Magic Lamp from One Thousand and One Nights

Starring           

Will Smith (Genie)

Mena Massoud (Aladdin)

Naomi Scott (Princess Jasmine)

Marwan Kenzari (Jafar)

Navid Negahban (The Sultan)

Nasim Pedrad (Dalia)

Billy Magnussen (Prince Anders)

Music by Alan Menken

Cinematography Alan Stewart

Edited by James Herbert

Production company Walt Disney Pictures

Distributed by Walt Disney Studios

Rating: PG

Aladdin is Disney’s live-action remake of the 1992 animated classic. As with previous adaptations like Dumbo, Jungle Book, and Beauty and the Beast, there are many computer-generated special effects, including the creepy Cave of Wonders and co-stars Will Smith as the huge, comedic, blue-ish magical Genie. The effects and the live-action factor comprise perilous scenes feel more more intense than ever than it was in the cartoon. There are chases, falls, and near death experiences, as well as one confirmed fatality when the villain Jafar pushes a man down to a dark well. The cave falls to pieces and vomits lava, a giant bird chases the characters, guards are armed with weapons, and there are references to dead parents. Language is very mild, with just a few insults along the lines of “street rat”; characters seduce and kiss, and Genie throws back a couple of martinis. What I like about the new stars Mena Massoud (Aladdin) and Naomi Scott (Jasmine) is that they were able to keep the spirit of the original animated feature and has a touch of female liberation and equality to sending appropriate messages about friendship, courage, integrity, and honesty.

THE STORY

ALADDIN is about the mischievous street rascal Aladdin (Mena Massoud) and his adventures or misadventures. On the busy streets of Agrabah, Aladdin meets a beautiful young woman who says she’s a royal dama but in truth the kingdom’s cloistered Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott). Meanwhile, the sultan’s megalomaniac vizier, Jafar (Marwan Kenzari), finds someone worthy to enter the legendary Cave of Wonders to dig up a special lamp that’s hidden inside. When Aladdin and his companion monkey, Abu, snitch into the palace grounds to find their new friend, Jafar captures Aladdin, reveals that the “handmaiden” is none other than the princess, and orders the younger man to get the lamp. What Jafar doesn’t count on is Aladdin himself unbridling the lamp’s power: a big blue genie (Will Smith), who’s guaranteed to accord him three wishes. With the Genie’s aid, Aladdin becomes “Prince Ali of Ababwa” to pursue the lovely Princess Jasmine.

EDUCATIONAL VALUE

Kids acquainted with the animated version will learn about editions and the influence of live-action stories against the animated ones. They’ll also learn about the importance of being honest with themselves and of women’s worth as leaders and prime movers.

POSITIVE MESSAGES

The film is about looking beneath the surface (social class, rank, etc.) to truly know who people are inside. Other positive messages include the idea that women — not just men — can be great, formidable and inspiring leaders and that real connection and love exceeds shallow differences. Aladdin upholds the value of revealing the truth, valuing honor, friendship, putting others’ welfare above our own, and the ability to break free from obsolete traditions.

POSITIVE ROLE MODELS & REPRESENTATIONS

Aladdin is like Robin Hood, a robber, but he also helps others who are even less fortunate and cares about the people – and most especially, the princess. He’s ingenious, brave, and kind. He is trapped between the advantages of wealth and power but eventually remains true to himself, establishing integrity. Jasmine is intelligent, thoughtful, and compassionate. She grows to love Aladdin for who he is and not his status. The Genie, despite being a slave to his master, is full of good advice for Aladdin, thinking of his welfare. He’s supportive and forthright and imparts to Aladdin about friendship. Jafar is manipulative truly a certified villain. I have observed that the Sultan is a little less clueless here than he was in the previous animated musical.

VIOLENCE & SCARINESS

The Cave of Wonders, I must say, is chilling; when Abu breaks the rules, it smashes and pukes lava, nearly killing Aladdin and Abu. There are falls and perilous climbs, pursues and flights. Jafar thrusts a man to his death in a dark, eerie, spine-chilling dungeon and later uses his powers to vanish people and torment the Sultan; he also tries to kill Aladdin by shoving him, bound, into the water (it’s a tense scene for a few moments while Aladdin is in critical danger of drowning). An enormous bird chases the heroes, causing damage. Jafar is frightening when he employs his jam-packed powers. The Sultan’s armed guards take hold of various people and chase and capture Aladdin. The Genie is forced to make even treacherous wishes come true. There are arguing scenes. There are references to both Jasmine’s mother and Aladdin’s parents being dead. The magic Carpet is broken during an action scene, which could upset some young children.

SEXY ELEMENTS

Flirting, hand-holding, dancing, and a few kisses, here and there. I was quite taken aback when the Genie makes a double-meaning comment about “feeling a little thirsty” after staring at Jasmine’s handmaiden, Dalia; Dalia calls the Genie “incredibly attractive.” I have sensed a possible reference to someone regarded as “hot” (hard to hear). In one song lyric, a woman calls Aladdin “tasty”, which signifies lust.

LANGUAGE

I have heard some insults like “street rat,” “riffraff,” “nothing,” “scoundrel,” “thief,” etc. Woman hater comments like Jasmine should “be seen and not heard,” “be silent,” “hurry up, woman,” etc. I am afraid that children might pick it up and use them to say bad things about their classmates or other people.

DRINKING, DRUGS & SMOKING

The Genie has martinis on a couple of occasions. Not good for the children to see.

CONCLUSION

Good thing, this film bolsters a strong line-up for its casting and a great soundtrack. I must say, Disney’s live-action remake is significantly better than expected, even if Smith’s Genie isn’t as outstanding as the late Robin Williams’ original role. With his curved smile and sober voice, Massoud is flawlessly cast as Aladdin. He has a lovely interaction with Scott’s Jasmine, who’s much more of a women’s libber here than in the animated musical. Naomi also proves to be a fine singer, although Jasmine’s new original song “Speechless” feels somewhat imposed. Aladdin and Jasmine’s duets are well executed, and “A Whole New World” still packs an emotional blow. Kenzari is credibly ruthless as the go-getting, evil Jafar, and Nasim Pedrad is quite good as Dalia, the real — and entertainingly dogmatic — royal handmaiden who captures the Genie’s eye.

As for Smith, whose role has been widely roasted on social media before the film was released in the theaters, let’s just say that he’s much easier to handle in disguise as Prince Ali’s human adviser, rather than as the somewhat repellent blue Genie. And Smith is surely funny, but his presentation of the genie’s signature song, “Friend Like Me,” can’t live up to Williams’ moving, fast-moving delivery. The movie’s got high production values. The action scenes are more of Guy Ritchie’s forte, and he even manages to comprise his special slow-motion shots in a few scenes. Despite the heavy focused promotion on Will Smith here as the Genie, Aladdin ultimately and rightfully so belongs to the new rising stars, Mena and Naomi.

Overall, I rate the film 3.5 out of 5 stars.

http://www.filcatholic.org/a-magical-story-of-courage-and-integrity-film-review-on-aladdin/

Avengers Endgame: Marvelously Grand and Epic!

MARVELOUSLY GRAND AND EPIC! A FILM REVIEW ON THE AVENGERS END GAME

on: May 07, 2019

Meanne M. Mijares

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

John 15:13 (NIV)

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

Starring           

Robert Downey Jr.  as Tony Stark / Iron Man

Chris Evans as Steve Rogers / Captain America

Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner / Hulk

Chris Hemsworth as Thor

Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow

Jeremy Renner as Clint Barton / Hawkeye

Don Cheadle as James Rhodes / War Machine

Paul Rudd as Scott Lang / Ant-Man

Brie Larson as Carol Danvers / Captain Marvel

Karen Gillan as Nebula

Danai Gurira as Okoye

Bradley Cooper as Rocket (voice)

Josh Brolin        as Thanos

For a complete list of cast members, click: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4154796/fullcredits

Based on          The Avengers by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby

Directed by      Anthony Russo and Joe Russo

Production Company Marvel Studios

Distributed by Walt Disney Studios/Motion Pictures

Rating: PG

The Avengers: Endgame is the last film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s current generation of movies, bringing together many story lines and characters from 21 previous movies, beginning with 2008’s Iron Man. Families with younger kids should know that there’s definitely as much intense violence (decapitation, explosions, stabbings, impalement, crushing, shooting, etc.), and even more pain, trauma, and grief here than there was in Avengers: Infinity War. A couple of beloved characters die, which is particularly upsetting. The language is similar to the previous films, but there’s no romance beyond a few brief embraces and kisses between recognized couples. Thor drinks a lot to deaden his pain. With themes of courage, teamwork, and perseverance, this epic Avengers culmination is the supreme offering to Marvel fans who will laugh, cry, and cheer as their favorite superheroes join forces to save the universe one last time.

POSITIVE MESSAGES

As with many superhero movies, while violence is the main means of conflict resolution, this is primarily a story about courage, self-sacrifice, heroism, and the collective good. Themes also include teamwork, perseverance, and courage. The central characters are willing to sacrifice, die (and kill) to save the universe and rescue the Earth from the grief and trauma they’ve had. The film also shows the major importance of family and friendships, and how the concept of family is more than pure flesh and blood: People can have amazingly strong chosen families, with friends who give unconditional love. ‘Endgame’ strongly emphasizes the idea of being who you are, not who you think you’re “supposed” to be.

POSITIVE INFLUENCES

The Avengers and their friends are all flawed protagonists but unforgettably and undeniably brave. Although they aren’t individually as invincible as Thanos, but together they make the impossible become possible. They make sacrifices, protect one another, and work together to save their loved ones and even strangers alike. The Marvel women once again have an opportunity (albeit a fairly brief one) to bond together, and family men like Scott/Ant Man and Clint/Hawkeye are particularly empowered in doing whatever is necessary to save their loved ones. Captain America and Thor prove themselves truly worthy of their special weapons/powers. The characters make tough life-or-death decisions that put their lives on the line for the greater good. Thanos believes he’s giving salvation to the universe, but his approach — genocide — is on shaky ground and unsustainable.

VIOLENCE

I have seen frequent and intense comic book-style action violence where the characters are killed and severely wounded. Film viewers will see dismemberment, decapitation, stabbing, crushing, shooting, impalement, choking, extremely destructive explosions, self-sacrifice, being tracked down by frightening monsters, and more. There are weapons include guns, swords, axes, hammers, missiles, and a lot more. The violence isn’t especially gruesome, but a couple of injuries or deaths are a bit gory, and accomplishments come at a much greater cost. There is a presence of frequent peril and danger as well as mourning/sadness, arguments/yelling/shouting throughout the film.

SEXUAL SCENES

There are brief kisses/embraces between romantic couples. There are scenes that Thor spends some scenes shirtless.

LANGUAGE

What disappoints me is the occasionally strong language, including “son of a bitch,” “ass,” “s–t,” “bulls–t,” “d–khead,” “pissed,” “damn,” “piss-ant,” “hell,” “crap,” “goddamn,” “Jesus” (as an exclamation), and “oh my God.” (Even Captain America swears!)  and one abuse of Our Lord’s name.  

DRUGS, DRINKING AND SMOKING

There are scenes that Thor drinks too much as a form of self-medication or some way of coping after that great loss. Until a life-changing conversation, he’s often asking for beer, ale, liquor and/or wine, and bottles and the barrels are shown.

CONCLUSION

In summary, “Endgame” gives us all a glimmer of hope despite the bleak and painful experiences that we have gone through . The film says that as long as you are with the right people, every weight gets a little lighter. It adds also that sacrifices has good and long running benefits and that it is better to try rather than not trying anything at all. It is also a film about second chances. These superheroes are no different from us. They experience low points in life, they get broken, argue, bicker and feel despair. Even times of breakdown.  So let us always remember this: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.  Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Eph. 6:11-17 and “Do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good.” Rom. 12:21 and For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7

As for the protagonists, they are not called superheroes for nothing. Yes, they have reached the endgame, as viewers like you and me are just blown away so expect nothing less but the best.

Overall, I rate the film 4.5 out of 5 stars.

http://www.filcatholic.org/marvelously-grand-and-epic-a-film-review-on-the-avengers-end-game/

ONE MEMORABLE VISITA IGLESIA

MEMORIES AND LESSONS FROM ONE VISITA IGLESIA By Meanne M. Mijares

on: April 15, 2019

March 28, 2013. I remember six years ago, my mom and I went on a Visita Iglesia where the Blessed Sacrament is exposed in many churches for worship and veneration and recite the Stations of the Cross-that is two stations per church until we reach the seventh one among the rest of the faithful- which we actually do during the Holy Week instead of going out of town.  This is the first time my youngest sister was unable to come with us because of a pounding headache that made her indisposed so our mom decided to let her stay home as we will be praying for her. After attending the high mass of our Lord’s last supper on Maundy Thursday, we went home to have dinner then our driver readies our car and off we go to start our visita Iglesia.  

The Cathedral of the Good Shepherd of the Diocese of Novaliches

Our first stop was at our very own church- the Cathedral Shrine of the Good Shepherd- which is a stone’s throw away from our house. It was already full of people praying the rosary while others are doing their Stations of the Cross. We prayed before the Blessed Sacrament and started our first two stations in prayerful meditation afterwards. (1) Jesus is condemned to death, and (2) Jesus is made to bear His cross. In the first station, we see that justice is crushed by weakness, cowardice and fear of the ruling mindset of the mob. The quiet voice of conscience is drowned out by the cries of the crowd. Evil shows its power from wrong decisions and concern for what other people think.  The Lord was condemned to death because we fear of what other people may think and kill the small voice of our conscience. So too, throughout history and even today, the innocent have always been maltreated, condemned and killed. How many times have we ourselves preferred success to the truth, our reputation to justice? Let us pray to the Lord to strengthen the quiet voice of our conscience, in our lives. Let Him look at us as He looked at Peter after his denial. In looking at the image of our condemned Savior, His gaze looks right into our hearts and indicates where the course of our lives will take us. On Good Friday, the mob clamored for His death, and He brought them to conversion. In this way He all us gave hope. We pray anew to Him to grant us, the grace of conversion. In the second station, it came to mind what the Lord Jesus hath said: Take up your cross and follow Me. Every day of our lives we carry our own crosses-problems, trials and sufferings in many forms. It’s too heavy and it becomes unbearable to the point that it crushes us and we break down. Indeed to follow Him is very costly because the price of justice in this world is through suffering! Jesus, our true King, does not reign through violence or vengeance, but through a love which suffers for us and with us.  He takes up the Cross, our own cross, the burden of being human, and the entire world.  And so He goes before us and points out to us the way which leads to true and everlasting life. “I am the Way,” He said. He willingly subjected Himself to mockery and scorn. Let us pray to Him to help us not to be counted among those who look down on the weak and suffering, to acknowledge His face in the lowly and the outcast. We pray for the grace to never lose heart when faced with the hatred and contempt of this world, which mocks our obedience to His will. He carried His own Cross and He ask us to follow you on this path (Mt 10:38). We pray to Him to help us to take up the Cross, and not to turn away from it. May we never complain or become discouraged by life’s trials. May He help us to follow the path of love and, in surrendering to its exigencies, to discover and appreciate true joy.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in UP Village run by the Claretian Missionaries.

Next stop for us was at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish  in UP Village. The moment I saw the exposed Blessed Sacrament, a slogan under it had caught my eye “Witnessing to the Richness of Faith” Indeed our faith is so rich but it should keep us alive and going despite the many trials we go through. If we put our faith in proper use, then the Lord can work in and through us so people will see it and glorify Him. And then we start out with the next two stations: (3) Jesus falls for the first time, (4) Jesus meets His mother. After reciting the fourth station, I told my mom that we should go and light candles before our Lady’s image outside and we did. It was our first time to visit the IHMP and it was special because I felt how the Lord longs to see our Blessed Mother to alleviate His sufferings during His Passion. It is truly important to have our loved ones with us in our times of trials to strengthen our resolve to endure and then get up again after a hard fall. We earnestly prayed to our Lady for the grace to love our Lord Jesus and have compassion on others.

Parish of the Holy Sacrifice inside the UP Diliman Campus

Then we went to the UP Parish of the Holy Sacrifice in Diliman where I have fond memories of attending noon time masses and going to confession as well as visits to the Blessed Sacrament during my vacant periods before attending the next class all throughout my campus life. I still visit even long after I have graduated from my college alma mater.  But this time around, is for the visita Iglesia. It was enthroned in a beautiful garden where everyone was in deep prayer. Afterwards we reflected on the next two (5) Simon of Cyrene is made to bear the cross, (6) Veronica wipes Jesus’ face. Even when we face trials, we also help others get through their own. We don’t carry their burdens literally but we pray with them for God to lift their burdens. Let us not be indifferent to others in need. The face of our Lord Jesus Christ is present in those who are suffering, the least, last and lost.

Our Lady of Pentecost Parish in Katipunan Avenue.

Our Lady of the Pentecost Parish in Salvador St, Varsity Hills, Loyola Heights was our next stop. The exposed Blessed Sacrament was located downstairs, I believe. It was dark and quiet, only the light surrounding the enthroned Holy Eucharist remained bright. Afterwards, we went upstairs to proceed with our next two stations: (7) Jesus falls for the second time, (8) the women of Jerusalem weep over Jesus; As my mom and I reflect on the following stations, we remember the news stories on film, print, radio and TV or even social media that causes unspeakable grief and pain on many people the world over. We should not make light of evil and hatred that is happening right in our midst. We need to see more clearly how dead serious sin can be and how it needs to be atoned for if it is to be overcome. As for the second fall of our Lord Jesus, it is seen how terribly heavy our sins can be as He carries His cross to save us but still He got up and never gave up on us. That’s how much He loves us. In life we fall many times, but He never tires to pick us up for we cannot rise on our own without His grace and mercy.

The Church of the Jesu inside the Ateneo de Manila University

The Church of the Gesù, the Roman Catholic church of the Ateneo de Manila University campus is our next stop. It has brought us warm and fond memories because my sister had her baccalaureate mass before her graduation ceremonies (where she finished her Masters in Business Administration at the Rockwell campus in 2002) at the Henry Lee Irwin Theater. It was extra special because our beloved daddy was still with us then. Eleven years later, we came back for our visita Iglesia sans daddy. The image of the Blessed Sacrament here was placed in beautiful makeshift bamboo house adorned with yellow button flowers and greens. Like the one at the Our Lady of the Pentecost Parish, it was quite dark inside and there were a few people inside in deep prayer as well. After praying before the exposed Blessed Sacrament, we got up and did the next two stations, (9) Jesus falls for the third time, (10) Jesus is stripped of His garments. In our reflections, we remember Saint John the Evangelist in his First Letter, speaks of a threefold fall: lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life. He interprets the fall of man and the entire humanity against the backdrop of the vices of his own time, with all its excesses and perversions. In today’s world, of how a Christianity which has grown weary of faith has abandoned the Lord: the great dogmas, and the commonplace existence of those who, no longer believing in anything, aimlessly go through life, have built a new level and worse paganism and idolatry, which in its attempt to reject God altogether, have ended up doing away even his own fellowmen. And so there man lies fallen in the dust because of his own doing. Our Lord carries our sins and falls, over and over again, in order to reach out to us. He lovingly looks upon us, He touches our hearts; and yes, He falls in order to raise us up so we too could rise with Him.  

In the next station, our Lord is stripped off His Divinity in order to embrace our sinful humanity. Clothing gives a man his place in society, it makes him someone who is looked up to, someone very important. His public stripping means that Jesus is simply nothing but an outcast, hated by everyone. The moment of the stripping reminds us of the expulsion of our first parents Adam and Eve from Paradise: God’s splendor has fallen away from mankind, who now stands naked and exposed, unclad and ashamed. And so Jesus once again takes on the condition of fallen and sinful man. Stripped of his garments, He reminds us that we have all lost the “first garment” that is God’s glory. At the foot of the Cross, the soldiers casted lots to divide His clothes. Let us not forget that John  19:23 says that lots were drawn for Jesus’s tunic, “woven without seam from top to bottom” (Jn 19:23). We may consider this as a reference to the High Priest’s robe, which was “woven from a single thread”, without stitching (Fl. Josephus, a III, 161). For He, the Holy and  Crucified One, is the only true High Priest. This is how our Lord brought meaning into seeming meaninglessness. This is how He makes us realize that His Heavenly Father holds Him, us, and the entire world in His hands. Let us give a profound respect and uphold the dignity for man at every stage of his life, and in all the situations in which we encounter our Lord. Let us ask Him to clothe us in the light of His grace.

The Church of the Jesu

Next up for us is the Santa Maria Dela Strada Parish in Katipunan Avenue corner Pansol Avenue, in Diliman. Here the exposed Blessed Sacrament is placed inside the church guarded by two members of the Knight of Columbus (KOC) clad in their red, black and white uniforms holding one sword each. My mom and I slowly went up to the Blessed Sacrament with two huge pink candles on the left and right respectively where every step was filled with small votive candles.  After our prayers we went to the Santa Maria De la Strada Lawn where the Stations of the Cross are placed.  They also have a beautiful Grotto there. A mass can also be held here at the lawn.

Santa Maria della Stada Parish along Katipunan Avenue.

As we reflected on the next two stations, (11) Jesus is nailed to the cross, (12) Jesus dies on the cross, it has come to mind that let us stop before this painful image of the suffering Son of God. Let us look upon Him at times of presumptuousness and pleasure, in order to learn to respect limits and to see the shallowness of all material goods. Let us look upon Him in times of trial, heartbreak and tribulation, and realize that it is then that we are closest to God. Let us try to see His face in the people we might hurt or look down upon. As we stand before the condemned Savior, who did not use His power to come down from the Cross, but endured its suffering up to the end! Let us nail ourselves to Him, resisting the temptation to stand apart, or to join others in mocking Him. By accepting the terrible cruelty of this suffering, the destruction of His Sacred body and dignity, He let Himself to be nailed fast; He hardly try to escape or to lessen His suffering. May we never flee from what we are called to do. Let us pray to Him for the grace to remain faithful to Him. May He help us to unmask the false freedom which would separate us from Him. May we accept His “binding” freedom, and, let us be “bound” fast to Him, to discover real freedom. On the 12^th station, it has come to our understanding that the Lord Jesus has triumphed from the Cross. His words were clear: “Courage! I have overcome the world!” He died accomplishing His mission to redeem us from sin and death. He manifested Himself on the Cross through His light shining in our world darkened by evil and indifference. In the world we live in this is defeat but in the eyes of God, it is sweet success, sweet revenge from Him no less through His Son. The kingship of Jesus was proclaimed before the world. Jesus is indeed the King of the world! Now he is truly “lifted up”. In descending to the depths he rose to the topmost pinnacle. Now He has completely brought to fruition the commandment of love, He has satisfied the offering of Himself, and in this way He is now the expectation of the true image of God, the God who alone is love. Now we finally know who God is! Now we know what true kingship is all about.

Altar of the St. Peter Parish along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City

And our final stop before heading back home is at the St Peter’s Parish in Commonwealth Quezon City. When we arrived, only a handful of people were there; the place where the exposed Blessed Sacrament was supposed to be there was already vacant outside although it was draped in white surrounded with green foliage and a spray of white orchids on top of it. Unfortunately, the exposed Blessed Sacrament was already put back inside and the church was already closed. But that did not hinder us from praying and reflecting on the last two stations (13) Jesus is taken down from the cross, and (14) Jesus is placed in the sepulcher.  Jesus is now dead. From His heart, pierced by the lance of the Roman soldier Longinus, flow blood and water:  truly a mysterious image of the stream of the sacraments, Baptism and the Eucharist, by which the Church is constantly reborn from the opened heart of the Lord. Jesus’ legs are not broken, like those of the two men crucified with him. He is thus revealed as the true Paschal lamb, not one of whose bones never broken In this hour of immense grief, of darkness and despair, the light of hope is ever present. The hidden God continues to be the God of life, ever so near. Even in the night of death, the Lord continues to be our Lord and Saviour. He descended into the darkness of death. But His body is wrapped in a white shroud (Mt 27:59). Faith has not entirely died; the sun has not totally set. In the hour of darkness, He is still there-let us not forget that. He does not abandon us when we are tempted to lose hope. May He help us not to leave Him alone. May He give us the fidelity to sustain moments of confusion and   ready to embrace Him in our utter helplessness, like our Blessed Mother, who one more time holds Him close to her chest. May He help us all, the poor and rich, simple and learned, to look beyond our fears, differences and prejudices, and to offer Him our abilities, our hearts and our time, and thus to be witnesses of His resurrection .

In that one visita Iglesia experience , my mom and I learned so much that we share all these not only with my sister but also with FilCatholic readers, as well. May this Holy Week give us the grace to practice humility, obedience, patience, selflessness and justice and onwards.

May God bless us all!

http://www.filcatholic.org/memories-and-lessons-from-one-visita-iglesia-by-meanne-m-mijares/

MOVIE TIME FOR HOLY WEEK

YOUR HOLY WEEK MOVIE MARATHON GUIDE

on: April 12, 2019

By Meanne M. Mijares

It’s already time for the Holy Week. And one of the best ways to spend it either on your own or better yet, gather your loved ones is having a movie marathon. Yes, please do pass the popcorn and chips! I strongly believe that film is a powerful medium which shows us a deeper way of incarnating the presence of God in our world through the use of narratives, symbols and images. Furthermore, film explores the role and power of imagination in spirituality and contemplation. So I have come up with five (5) films that you will surely love to watch and reflect on what it teaches and increase fervor and devotion to our Lord Jesus Christ.   

● THE YOUNG MESSIAH

Released three years ago (April 20, 2016) in the Philippines, the movie stars Mary (Sara Lazzaro), Joseph (Vincent Walsh) and 7-year-old Jesus (Adam Greaves-Neal). The Holy Family embarks on a journey from Egypt to Nazareth after the young boy Jesus miraculously brings someone back from death to life. When King Herod (Jonathan Bailey) issued an order to kill the child, Roman centurion Severus (Sean Bean) began hunting down the Holy Family across the desert. As Mary and Joseph worry about His welfare and safety, Jesus’ natural curiosity makes Him to know more about the world and His extraordinary and incredible powers as the Son of God. The film was directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh and produced by Christ Columbus and Mark Radcliffe. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. 

● SON OF GOD

Set in the the Holy Land, the Roman occupation has created a cauldron of oppression, injustice, anxiety and excessive taxes imposed upon the Jewish people. Dreading the ire of Roman governor Pontius Pilate (Greg Hicks), Jewish high priest Caiaphas (Adrian Schiller) tries to keep control of his people but his control is loomed when Jesus (Diego Morgado) arrives in Jerusalem, doing miracles, wonders and spreading messages of love and hope to a multitude of  people. Those who fear that Jesus will inspire an uprising, the  Teachers of the Law  decide that He must die by as well as know, crucifixion. The direction and screenplay was by Christopher Spencer. It garnered the following awards and nominations: ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards 2015 Winner ASCAP Award; Top Box Office Films Hans Zimmer (composer)  Lorne Balfe (composer); Imagen Foundation Awards 2014 Nominee; Imagen Award Best Actor/Supporting Actor – Feature Film Diogo Morgado; MovieGuide Awards 2015 Winner; Grace Award Grace Award for Film Diogo Morgado Rating: 5 stars-Perfect!

●THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST

In the film’s version of Christ’s passion and crucifixion, based on the New Testament, the apostle Judas accelerates the downfall of his Lord Jesus (Jim Caviezel) by handing him over to the Roman Empire’s selected officials. To the disgust and shock of His mother, Mary (Maia Morgenstern), Magdalen (Monica Bellucci), whom He had saved from damnation, and His disciples, Jesus is condemned to death. He is persecuted and mistreated as he trails a crucifix to in close proximity to Calvary, where He is nailed to the cross. Yes, He dies, but not before a final act of grace. It was released in the Philippines on March 31, 2004 and directed by Mel Gibson. It was awarded the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Dramatic Movie, Satellite Award Best Director for Mel Gibson (2005)Academy Awards for Best Cinematography (2004): AA-Best Cinematography (nominated) Academy Awards for Best Makeup (2004): AA-Best Makeup (nominated) Academy Awards for Best Score (2004): AA-Best Score (nominated) Jewish Palestinian Aramaic, Latin, Hebrew Language were used for authentication. Rating: 5 stars – Perfect!

●MARY MAGDALENE

Set in the first century, free-spirited Mary Magdalene (Rooney Mara) flees an arranged marriage by her family eventually finding a refuge and a sense of purpose in a fundamental new movement led by the captivating and appealing rabble-rousing preacher named Jesus (Joaquin Phoenix). The only woman among His group of disciples, Mary challenges the biases and chauvinisms of a patriarchal society as she endures an intense and deep spiritual awakening and finds herself at the midpoint of an Earth- trembling moment. Directed by David Davis, it was distributed by Focus Features, IFC Films. Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

●NOAH

When God decides that mankind has become too wicked and immoral, and must be erased from the face of the Earth, He chooses Noah (Russell Crowe), a devout and holy man, for an enormous task. Noah must put up an ark big enough to hold his wife (Jennifer Connelly), adopted daughter (Emma Watson), sons (Logan Lerman, Douglas Booth, Leo McHugh Carroll) and their wives — plus breeding pairs of every animal. When the task is done, Noah and his family witness God’s fury in the form of an apocalyptic flood. Released on March 26, 2014 in the Philippines, it was directed by Darren Aronofsky who also did the screenplay with Ari Handel and became a box-office hit. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

May these films inspire us to make sense of our lives, help us to discover and experience the presence of our Lord Jesus, the meaning of both the ordinary and extraordinary miracles and events in our lives. In Him, we have found the true way to God!

http://www.filcatholic.org/your-holy-week-movie-marathon-guide/