"Faith and Film" Series 2022

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“Faith and Film 2022” Series Overview
The true power of a movie is its story, even more than its celebrity cast, special effects, and soundtrack.  A movie can speak to who we are, where we come from, and what we are to do.  It may even reveal something about God.  In our “Faith and Film” series for June, we will consider the significance of several Oscar-nominated films for 2022, including CODA, Luca, Belfast, and Encanto.  Trinity Wilmette members voted for the films and the titles receiving the most votes are included in our series.  Our Faith and Film invites us to reflect on our search for meaning and struggle for dignity.

June 5
CODA: Ruby’s deaf family depend on her as a hearing person.  When the music teacher discovers Ruby’s musical talent, she faces a choice between her family and her dream.  In Romans 15:1-7, Paul encourages us to help those who are weaker.  When have you faced a hard choice?

June 12
LUCA is a “sea monster” who sees humans as “land monsters.”  He is young and longing for something more in his life.  This movie takes on themes like freedom, friendship, and acceptance.  These are not only great metaphors for our spiritual life, but they are things we concretely need.  In Proverbs, 2:1-6, the sage says that wisdom comes from God and expands our understanding.  With wisdom, we can come to understand true freedom, true friendship, and true acceptance.  Where do you experience freedom, friendship, and acceptance?

June 19
BELFAST: It’s 1969 in Northern Ireland.  Buddy enjoys a happy childhood, and everyone on his street is living in harmony.  When the Troubles begin, Buddy’s peaceful neighborhood is upended.  Between his father's work and social unrest, Buddy’s family considers leaving Belfast.  In Ruth 1:1-4, 8, 16-17, after several losses, Ruth decides to make a new future in a new land with her mother-in-law.  Have you had a “turning point” in life?

June 26
ENCANTO: Members of the Madrigal family all receive gifts from the family’s miracle.  God gives each of us gifts, and when we try to use our gifts by ourselves, we run into problems.  In Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, the Gatherer talks about how we can find strength when we work together.  When have your gifts combined with someone else’s gifts made you both stronger?

 

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