Video Culture and Parish Life
By Frances Forde Plude
During the sixties, as American culture was experiencing upheaval, theological breakthroughs were occurring at the Second Vatican Council in Rome. One major change, outlined in the document The Church in the Modern World, was that the church seemed more comfortable viewing the world as graced – contrasted with its earlier habit of condemning much that was “modern.” We are out of touch with these church documents if we view the world as essentially evil; this also violates our Resurrection hope and our belief in the coming of the Kingdom.
We have spoken about how Vatican II participative theology is demonstrated in communication-as-exchange, instead of top-down messages. And we have seen how the story is an essential part of human culture.
The Catholic Church, through history, has connected with popular culture, even belatedly. Examples include the stories of the Saints, the Madonna in art, and popular prayer practices. Today’s popular culture is a video culture. How do we connect with this – especially when many of us feel more comfortable with the linear, rational, print world?
I face this challenge whenever I prepare to teach my Film Studies course to college students. The trick is to connect with “their” movies and still elevate each person’s ability to grasp the deeper layers of meaning in fine films. Students find their appetite for good films increasing as they discuss them and critique wisely.
Several tactics have been helpful and might work in a parish setting. First, I always invite students to help choose the final list of films to be viewed. I provide a semi-final list and then we interact; I invite them to talk about films they have found meaningful and entertaining. This helps me get a feel for what would work with this group; then rich sharing can occur.
Secondly, I try to make the setting comfortable. Students bring popcorn or other snacks, some bring pillows, and they can invite friends. Feature some of their favorite actors. This makes our time together real instead of rarified.
It is also important to have some structure if we are to educate ourselves to “read” this new “video language.” I usually build units around themes. This Fall one theme is “redemption” with examples such as The Shawshank Redemption, The Joy Luck Club, and Dead Man Walking.
We view several films scripted by the same writer so we can see images applied in different ways: the use of water, for example, by Robert Bolt in both A Man for all Seasons and in The Mission.
Be sure to plan a lively discussion after viewing the film. Questions prepared in advance insure both thoughtful sharing and spontaneous input. Finally, we need to acknowledge that many films without explicit religious themes are, nevertheless, about a faith journey, the search for meaning, and the tension between good and evil. Films can enrich the vocabulary of much pastoral ministry communication.
By Suzanne Nelson
Parish life is one endless possibility! A series of movie discussion nights might work as an Advent or Lenten program. Select and publish a list of movies on a theme, one for each week of the series. Meet to share insights about the film, the characters, and real-life connections. (Don’t forget to involve an advisory group of parishioners in selecting films, so the program is not limited to your own personal preferences.)
What about an afternoon or evening women’s group meeting to discuss “Stages of a Woman’s Life” using film excerpts? This might be a wholesome alternative to Soap Operas. A related idea: use film clips to illustrate various personality types. Let participants decide with whom they most identify, sharing insights. Parishioners themselves can construct this series, reflecting their choices.
How about starting a youth meeting with a “Top Ten” list of excerpts from current films? Select quotes that fit the theme you are developing in your program. Let the participants guess the name of the film. Discuss the quotes. Quotes on the theme of conversion, for example, might be “You make me want to be a better man” from As Good As It Gets, or “My heart will go on” which is the Titanic theme.
Film reviews on the internet can be a valuable resource as you organize film study guides. Search MovieLink or SHOWTIME on the web. Could we use the parish bulletin or newsletter to print film reviews written by parishioners? Are there Jungian analysts or teachers in the parish who would give a talk on the symbolism found in film, the use of archetype and its connection to the spiritual life.
Does your parish library have a video collection of good quality? Does it contain films for all ages? Your diocesan media center can be a valuable resource. They may suggest speakers for adult groups and guidelines for evaluating movies for purchase. They will loan you films and provide lists of other sources of free or inexpensive videos.
I heard of one priest who was able to sing the opening line of a current popular movie at the beginning of his homily. He then went on to show the relationship between the movie’s theme, the Scripture, and our own lives. He certainly had everyone’s attention. Even telling part of the story, without the singing, could keep a homily focused and relevant.
We are both urging that parish ministries reflect our media culture. That is where humanity resides!