The Movie

FADE IN:

EXT. OUTSIDE THE CHURCH - DAY

It is a lovely sunny Sunday morning. Peter and his brother are on their way to church.

PETER (V.O)

One of my early memories is of walking on Sunday mornings with my brother about a dozen city blocks to Trinity United Church in my childhood home of Peterborough, Ontario. We didn’t think much about the fact our parents did not accompany us. Like most kids, we just did what we were told. Well, we actually did a few things we weren’t told as well.

PETER (V.O) (CONT’D)

Our mother always prepared an offering envelope for us. The envelope had two separate pockets, one for the church itself and one for the missions. Each pocket contained a bit of small change. As the older brother, I was in charge of the envelope. Each Sunday, as we walked along, I opened both pockets of the envelope to see how much money they contained.

PETER

We should take half of the money and go to the candy store on our way home, eh? What do you think?

PETER’S BROTHER

(submissive, he nods)

Sure, but what if Mom finds out?

PETER

(laughs)

It’s okay, she won’t.

EXT. HOUSE – FRONT PORCH - CONTINUOUS

The brothers discard the empty candy bag before they open the front door and enter.

PETER

We’re home!

INT. KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS

The brothers see their mother, Mabel, by the oven. Mabel whips around to meet their gazes.

MABEL

(smiling)

How was church, boys?

PETER

Good.

Peter and his brother sit on the counter stools, smiling at their mother.

PETER

Mom, can I ask you something?

MABEL

Go ahead, Son.

PETER

Why don’t you and Father go to church with us? Why just us?

MABEL

(in shock, hesitating to answer)

Church just doesn’t work for me, Boys. I tried to believe, but my doubts overpowered my faith. With all my heart, I truly wished I could believe in Him.

Peter and his brother go quiet after that.

INT. HOUSE - FRONT PORCH - CONTINUOUS

After their heavy conversation with their mom, Peter and his brother go out of the house, and they run into their father.

PETER (V.O.)

Should we also ask Dad the same question we asked Mom?

Peter hesitates at first but decides to call his dad.

PETER (CONT’D)

(hesitation evident in his voice)

Dad?

JACK

Yes, son?

PETER

Can we ask something?

Peter then looks at his brother. They stare at each other for a while with knowing looks.

JACK

Sure, go ahead.

PETER

Well, we had this conversation with Mom earlier…about why you and Mom don’t go to church with us…

JACK

(slightly taken aback, laughing a little)

Well…about time you asked. Your mother and I are non-believers. I am agnostic. I feel it is impossible to know if God exists.

PETER’S BROTHER

How does that differ from being an atheist?

JACK

An atheist insists there is no God. An agnostic insists that the existence of God is unknowable.

Peter and his brother nod at their father’s answers.

PETER

Thanks for your insight, Dad.

Jack pats both his sons on the head and goes inside the house.

PETER (V.O.)

Much later, I discovered a more significant reason why our parents did not accompany us to church. After our father had returned from five years in the army during WWII, Sunday mornings, alone without us, were opportunities for some intimacy, which fate had long denied them.

PETER (V.O.) (CONT’D)

As a result of their non-belief, none of us children had any religious training in the home. In fact, there was almost no religious discussion in our home. The exception to this was our Christmas dinner.

PETER (V.O.) (CONT’D)

In preparation, my mother would highlight several Bible passages in Matthew and Luke, which describe Christ’s birth. Before the meal began, the Bible was passed around the table so each of us could read a part of the story.

EXT./INT. OUTSIDE THE HOUSE - PUTTING THINGS INSIDE THE CAR - DAY

PETER (V.O.)

In my teens, my dad took a new job in St. Catharines. It meant my siblings and I had to leave our home in Peterborough. Our most difficult loss was having to leave our friends, and the security we had with them, behind. We had to start our lives all over again.

PETER (V.O.) (CONT’D)

I realized that two years later, I would experience loss all over again when it was time for me to go to university. Hopefully, I would be able to make new friends and explore more interests.

JACK

Are you all ready? No things left behind, boys?

PETER

(nodding)

Yep, I’ve already checked everything. Let’s go.

CUT TO:

EXT. ARRIVAL AT THE NEW HOUSE - AFTERNOON

PETER (V.O.)

Dad, sensing our loss, bought our first television and installed it in our new home before our arrival as a special surprise for us. When we arrived at our new home, we discovered it to be a modest two-story house with a beautiful front porch.

MABEL

Wow, this is a nice home, Jack.

JACK

(smiling)

Let’s go inside.

CUT TO:

INT. INSIDE THE HOUSE - CONTINUOUS

When they go inside, the house is still empty, waiting for their furniture to arrive. The boys go upstairs to explore, while Jack and Mabel are in the living room. Mabel finds the brand-new television and is shocked.

JACK

Surprise! Do you like it?

MABEL

(smiling from ear to ear)

Of course! Thank you, darling.

PETER

(descending the stairs)

What’s happening?

Peter and his brother return to the living room and see the television that the family had never been able to afford.

PETER’S BROTHER

Wow!

PETER

Dad, is this really ours?

JACK

The first of the many good things you’ll enjoy in our new home.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. CLASSROOM - MORNING

Peter goes inside a classroom, filled with students. The university lecture hall is orderly, and quiet. There’s a blackboard already filled with formulas and diagrams. The professor is already in front. Peter sits beside a young man who is smiling at him.

WAYNE

(smiling)

Good morning! I’m Wayne.

PETER

(smiling back)

Hey. I’m Peter.

PROFESSOR

In this discipline, we do not accept claims because they are tradition. We accept them because they can be demonstrated.

The professor writes something on the board. SHOW ON SCREEN: “OBSERVATION → HYPOTHESIS → PROOF”

PROFESSOR (CONT’D)

Any position reached without proof is unreliable. It may feel right, but feeling is not evidence.

Peter nods, listening intently.

PROFESSOR (CONT’D)

The scientific method demands discipline. We do not say something is true until it has earned that claim.

Wayne raised his hand. The professor acknowledges.

WAYNE

What about things people believe but can’t prove?

PROFESSOR

Then we suspend judgment, or we reject the claim.

The professor underlined PROOF on the board. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PROFESSOR (CONT’D)

Belief without proof is not knowledge. It is an assumption. This discipline will train you to question everything, especially what you were taught to accept.

PETER (V.O.)

From that point on, I refused to accept anything as knowledge that I could not prove. I focused solely on the scientific method.

PETER (V.O.) (CONT’D)

I became an atheist and accepted my Knowledge that life’s purpose was nothing more than earthly fulfillment. Much later, I realized I had explored far too few life experiences. I had stubbornly refused to re-examine The Club’s religious teachings because they lacked substantiation.

INT. DORM – ROOM - CONTINUOUS

After classes end, Peter walks towards the male dormitory. When he enters the room…

WAYNE

Hello, brother! It’s you.

PETER

(shock evident in his eyes)

Hey…we’re roommates…

WAYNE

(smiling, offering his hand to Peter)

Yep! I’m Wayne, in case you forgot.

PETER

(smiling back, took his hand)

I’m Peter.

WAYNE

Have you eaten dinner yet?

PETER

(shaking his head)

Nope.

WAYNE

(giving Peter a wide smile)

Then off to the cafeteria we go!

INT. UNIVERSITY CAFETERIA - CONTINUOUS – EVENING

PETER (V.O.)

I made a new friend who fortunately was also my roommate. We spent our time getting to know each other, and I learned that he is a Roman Catholic.

PETER (V.O.) (CONT’D)

He quickly became one of my best friends and impressed me as a sound thinker. I did find it strange he would walk to church every Sunday morning, and he had joined the Newman (Catholic Student) Society on campus.

Peter and Wayne enjoy their time getting to know each other while in the cafeteria.

INT. DORM - ROOM - LATE EVENING

It is 11 p.m. Peter and Wayne are diligently doing their assignments. Their textbooks are open and their desk lamps hum.

PETER

Question. Why do you believe in God so much?

WAYNE

(shrugs, thinking)

Because of His goodness and mercy in my life. I was also raised this way. It makes sense to me.

PETER

That’s not a reason. I need proof, concrete evidence. Help me understand.

WAYNE

You wouldn’t understand even if I told you. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

(smiles)

I also know it. I feel it, Peter.

PETER

But knowing requires proof! If a claim can’t be tested, it can’t be verified. If it can’t be verified, it isn’t knowledge. You know that, right? We had that in class.

WAYNE

Not everything true can be proven.

PETER

Then how do you distinguish truth from wishful thinking?

WAYNE

(pointing to his Bible)

Simple, it’s the Bible. The miracles.

PETER

A book that contradicts itself can’t prove itself. As well, much of it is unbelievable - the Creation in six days, the flood, the parting of the Red Sea, the Resurrection to name a few!

WAYNE

It’s because you are reading it too literally.

PETER

Then how do you know what’s literal and what isn’t?

Wayne keeps quiet.

PETER (CONT’D)

Until something can demonstrate it exists, the rational position is disbelief.

WAYNE

Well…I believe what I believe.

Peter nods gently. Their debate ended early in the morning.

But it was not settled.

INT. SMALL CAFÉ – NIGHT

A couple sets Peter up with a blind date, and they decide to meet in a cute coffee shop.

PETER (V.O.)

I fell in love on the spot. She was wearing a white dress that highlighted her red lipstick.

PETER

(handing his hand to Peggy)

Pleased to finally meet you. I’m Peter.

PEGGY

(smiling brightly, shaking his hand)

Hi. I’m Peggy.

Peter falls deeper in love as they talk for hours, getting to know each other. Peter leans forward, excited by his thoughts.

PETER

I used to think belief was harmless. Comforting, even. Then, I got to university. By the way, I am an engineering student.

Peggy nods, encouraging him to continue.

PETER (CONT’D)

Engineering trains you to be disciplined. You don’t accept a hypothesis because it feels right. You test it. If it can’t be proven, you reject it.

PEGGY

So, faith failed the test?

PETER

(smiling, proud)

Faith doesn’t even qualify for the test. No proof and concrete evidence. Just belief handed down and reinforced by tradition.

PETER (CONT’D)

I actually tried to apply the scientific method to everything I had said I believed. God, His “miracles”, The Apostles’ Creed.

(shaking his head)

None of it makes sense. If something can’t be proven, it’s unreliable, and unreliable ideas don’t belong in serious thinking.

PEGGY

What about meaning? Purpose?

PETER

Man-made ideas. Useful, maybe, but not true in any objective sense. We invented them because we’re uncomfortable with uncertainty.

PEGGY

You sound very sure, huh?

PETER

(smiling)

I am. At least about this. Atheism just…makes sense.

PEGGY

I like how carefully you think.

PETER

Oh wow, I’m flattered. Well, most people don’t. They argue, or try to convert me.

PEGGY

Well, who am I to judge? I’m just listening. I won’t try to insist.

PETER

Thank you, Peggy. I appreciate it. I felt heard and noticed…

INT. CHURCH – MORNING

Peter sits beside Peggy in a wooden pew.

PEGGY

Good morning! A blessed Sunday to you!

PETER

Good morning, Peggy. Likewise.

They keep quiet in the entirety of the mass. He is attentive and respectful but detached. Peggy kneels and Peter hesitates, but later mimics her like a kid following his mom, awkward, unsure what he’s doing. He looks around and sees people praying rote prayers to God. He doesn’t even understand what they are doing.

Peter watches Peggy. She is incredibly beautiful, but he can’t follow what she is doing.

PRIEST

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

CONGREGATION

Amen.

PRIEST

Go in peace.

CONGREGATION

Thanks be to God!

After mass, Peggy goes to chat with her friends. Peter waits for her and she rejoins him later.

PEGGY

How about brunch?

Peter nods, and they go off.

INT. SMALL CAFÉ – DAY

They go to their usual coffee shop and eat there. At first, they talk about ordinary things when Peter changes the topic.

PETER

You really believe all of it, huh? You don’t even hesitate to state the Apostles’ Creed.

PEGGY

Yes. Why would I?

PETER

Because it’s a big claim.

PEGGY

(smiling, calm)

I know.

PETER

What makes you so sure about your belief? What is your basis?

PEGGY

Peter, I really don’t expect you to understand, and I don’t know how to explain it the way you’d want me to. I just simply trust Him. His miracles and goodness are the reason why I’m still here.

PEGGY (CONT’D)

When I pray, I feel heard. He always listens. It may not be the answer that we’re expecting, but He does listen. I know when I’m going through something, I never feel alone.

PEGGY (CONT’D)

Life alone is hard, Peter. I can’t live without Him. I need Him every day. He sustains me.

PETER

But you can’t prove any of it. Doesn’t that bother you even a bit?

PEGGY

No. Does loving someone bother you because you can’t prove it?

Peter doesn’t answer. He isn’t able to.

PEGGY (CONT’D)

I don’t think faith is about proving. I think it’s about trusting.

PETER

What if you’re wrong?

PEGGY

If I am wrong, I have nothing to lose. If I’m right, I have everything to gain. I’ve gained something because I live believing I’m loved.

(pause, giving him a soft smile)

I think that wouldn’t be so terrible.

INT. CHURCH – ANOTHER SUNDAY – DAY

The congregation recites words Peter does not believe. He continues going to church with Peggy every Sunday. He continues to listen to the priest’s homily, following along with Peggy.

EXT. PARK – DUSK

Peter and Peggy sit on a bench. There is a long pause.

PETER

(hesitating)

I don’t think I belong there. It’s just that…

Peggy doesn’t argue, and she doesn’t judge either.

PEGGY

I understand, Peter.

Peter swallows hard. He couldn’t make eye contact with Peggy.

PETER

I am still not convinced…and I don’t want to lie to you. I don’t want to pretend.

She nods and believes she sees this coming. This isn’t new to her.

PEGGY

I wouldn’t want you to force things. It’s okay, Peter.

Silence. The truth between them finally surfaces.

PETER

(quiet)

I think I hoped…it wouldn’t matter. I want to be with you.

Peggy looks at him gently with those sad eyes.

PEGGY

It does.

EXT. STREET CORNER – CONTINUOUS - NIGHT

They stop walking. They are both quiet for a while.

PEGGY

I’m afraid I couldn’t do this, Peter. I need someone who could walk with me all the way with the Lord.

PEGGY (CONT’D)

I couldn’t pretend everything’s going to be fine. This would affect us both in the future - our future kids. You know that, right?

Peter nods, his eyes on the floor. He feels conflicted; he feels hurt; he feels helpless.

PETER

So, this is where we part, eh? I am deeply sorry, Peggy.

Peggy smiles, but it is opposite to what she truly feels.

PEGGY

Take care of yourself, Peter.

She turns and walks away. Peter stays, watching the love of his life walk away. He feels upset.

PETER (V.O.)

I had rejected belief on rational grounds. But for the first time, I felt the cost of that decision. Am I really doing the right thing?

Peter takes a deep breath before he walks in the opposite direction.

CUT TO:

(SHOW ON SCREEN Peggy’s Letter to Peter)

Dear Peter,

I honestly do not know where to start. But I do know that I like you. I tried to be patient - believe me I did. I convinced myself so much that it would be alright for us to be together even if we do not share the same faith, belief, and principles in life. But I realized that it would really matter in the future and we couldn’t avoid that, could we?

You are a great man, Peter. I believe you will find someone who will share the same beliefs as you. Thank you for everything. Until I see you again, in God’s time.

Forever Yours,

Peggy

FADE TO BLACK.

EXT. ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL – TORONTO – NIGHT

Peter sees Peggy exit the hospital after her shift. He gets out of the car and gives her a smile.

PETER

How are you?

PEGGY

I’m tired.

PETER

Then let’s get you home.

She gives him a tired smile. He brings her into his arms for a hug before proceeding to open the car door. They drive in silence.

INT. CAR – MOVING – NIGHT – CONTINUOUS

Peggy sleeps while Peter is quietly driving. It is raining and at a red light, she opens her eyes. Peggy looks at Peter with a warm smile.

PEGGY

Thank you for fetching me.

PETER

(smiling back)

Of course. Always.

EXT. PEGGY’S APARTMENT - NIGHT

They quietly get out of the car. It is a long, tiring night for both of them.

But neither wants the night to end. They reach the door. Peggy looks back and sees Peter standing behind her.

Peggy hesitates and stares, then leans in and kisses him. Peter responds gently. He holds her face with utmost care. Then Peggy abruptly pulls back. Peter realizes immediately.

PETER

I’m sorry! I shouldn’t have—

PEGGY

(smiling, calm)

No, no…You didn’t do anything wrong.

She takes his hand gently.

PEGGY (CONT’D)

I just…don’t do that thing while I’m not married. I’m sorry for leading you on.

PETER

Because of what you believe?

Peggy nods.

PEGGY

Yes. It’s a sacred thing between two married people.

INT. APARTMENT DOOR – CONTINUOUS

Peggy unlocks the door. Peter reluctantly walks away while Peggy is standing at the entrance.

PEGGY

Good night, Peter.

He nods.

PETER

Good night, Peggy.

Peter keeps walking and Peggy shuts the door. He heaves a deep sigh as he starts the car and the engine roars to life.

PETER (V.O.)

I had assumed beliefs like that

were imposed. What I encountered instead was discipline, and it was chosen freely.

INT. CATHOLIC INFORMATION CENTRE – EVENING

Having moved to Toronto, Peter discovers the Catholic Information Centre where it offers instruction in Roman Catholicism for people wondering if they want to convert.

It consists of weekly lectures followed by an opportunity for one-on-one mentoring.

A small group gathers. Peter sits at the back. At the front stands Christian, a young seminarian, who has a calm aura.

CHRISTIAN

Good evening, folks. Tonight isn’t about convincing anyone. But I will be lecturing to you about Roman Catholicism, and the goodness of God. We will also be offering mentoring, so stay tuned.

MONTAGE – WEEKLY MEETINGS

INT. MEETING ROOM – ONE-ON-ONE DISCUSSION - EVENING

PETER

(troubled look)

Christian, every week you give explanations, but I keep running into the same problem.

CHRISTIAN

What’s troubling you this time?

PETER

The Apostles’ Creed. Every Mass, people profess and say it like it’s the obvious truth. Like robots saying it again and again every Sunday.

CHRISTIAN

And you’re not convinced.

PETER

Not even close. “I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit…born of the Virgin Mary…on the third day, He rose again.” Those are extraordinary claims, yet no one in the group seems to question them.

CHRISTIAN

The Creed wasn’t written to prove those things scientifically.

PETER

Then what’s the point of it?

CHRISTIAN

It’s a statement of our faith. The earliest Christians used it to express what the Apostles taught about Jesus. Later, it was used to fight against heresies.

PETER

So, it’s tradition.

CHRISTIAN

It’s a tradition rooted in testimony. They claimed that they had witnessed these events.

PETER

But you know that witnesses can be mistaken, right?

CHRISTIAN

Oh yes, they can. But people rarely die defending something they know is false.

PETER

You’re saying the Apostles’ Creed exists because those first Christians were convinced the events really happened.

CHRISTIAN

Exactly. The Apostles’ Creed simply preserves what they believed they saw and experienced.

Peter studies the Apostles’ Creed for a moment.

PETER

It still feels like the Church expects people to accept it without proof.

CHRISTIAN

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. It often begins where proof ends, but Roman Catholics are not forbidden to ask questions.

PETER

That’s reassuring.

CHRISTIAN

Your questions are part of the journey, Peter.

INT. CATHOLIC INFORMATION CENTRE – ANOTHER NIGHT

PETER

Christian, there’s something else I can’t accept.

CHRISTIAN

All right. Let’s hear it.

PETER

Papal Infallibility. You’re telling me a man in Rome can’t be wrong?

CHRISTIAN

No, that’s not what it means nor what the Church claims.

PETER

It sounds like it. One man declaring the truth for everyone else.

CHRISTIAN

It doesn’t mean the Pope is sinless. He isn’t considered infallible in everything he says. Only in very rare situations.

PETER

Rare or not, he’s still human. Humans make mistakes.

CHRISTIAN

Yes, that is why the doctrine is limited. It applies only when the Pope formally declares a teaching on faith or morals ex cathedra.

PETER

And suddenly he can’t be wrong?

CHRISTIAN

Not because of the man himself. The Church believes the Holy Spirit protects the teaching from error.

PETER

That’s convenient. How often has this supposed protection happened?

CHRISTIAN

Very rarely, only a handful of times in history.

PETER

So, the rest of the Catechism…?

CHRISTIAN

Catholics believe it reflects truth, but they can still wrestle with it, question it, and think about it.

PETER

You’re saying I could become Catholic and still struggle with parts of the teaching?

CHRISTIAN

Yes, struggling is part of faith. Every single day, we struggle but we persevere. We pray for guidance. A true believer struggles; being a Christian isn’t a perfect journey, Peter. You will be tested with trials and tribulations.

PETER

I always thought religion demanded blind acceptance.

CHRISTIAN

Not blind, but trusting…while you continue searching for the truth.

Peter thinks quietly for a moment.

PETER

You know what worries me?

CHRISTIAN

What?

PETER

If Christianity is wrong and I’m right, then nobody loses anything they believed they had.

CHRISTIAN

And if Christianity is right?

PETER

(worried, heaves a deep sigh)

Then I’m standing on very thin ice.

CHRISTIAN

(giving a small smile)

Realization is sometimes the beginning of faith.

CUT TO:

INT. INFORMATION CENTRE – FINAL MEETING

The room is quiet. All eyes are on Christian who is in the front.

CHRISTIAN

The Church doesn’t claim absolute perfection or proof. I pray that you have learned a lot from our sessions and one-on-one meetings. I pray for God’s peace in each and every one of you. If you are still hesitating, you are always welcome here.

Peter exhales then nods slowly.

INT. CHURCH – LATE AFTERNOON

Peter stands with a small group of adults who are also getting their confirmation sacrament. Peter fidgets his fingers. The bishop moves down the line, laying hands, and anointing foreheads.

It is Peter’s turn. He faces the bishop as the oil touches his forehead. He closes his eyes.

BISHOP

Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.

PETER

Amen.

The bishop faces the congregation and gives a small smile.

BISHOP

Peace be with you all.

CUT TO:

INT. CHURCH PEW – EVENING

The event is finished. Peter has been confirmed and sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.

Mabel approaches him, giving her son a gentle smile. They hug for a while.

MABEL

I am happy for you, darling.

She presses a rosary into Peter’s hand.

MABEL (CONT’D)

This is for you.

Peter stares at the rosary in his hand.

PETER

(smiling)

Thank you, Mother.

His father and brother also approach him with a hug.

JACK

This calls for a celebration. What do you think, Son?

PETER

Let’s go!

INT. RESTAURANT – CONTINUOUS

Mabel, Jack, Peter, and his brother arrive at a dimly lit restaurant. They order an enormous amount of scrumptious food to celebrate Peter’s confirmation. They recall happy moments as Jack raises his glass.

Peter laughs and does the same.

JACK

To Peter and his new journey!

They clink glasses. Mabel watches Peter proudly.

INT. RESTAURANT – LATER – CONTINUOUS

Conversation flows easily and happiness is evident in Peter’s face. At one point, he takes the rosary from his pocket. He stares at it for a while.

PETER (V.O.)

Am I really ready for this kind of life? For this kind of commitment?

Peter then shifts his gaze to his family who are celebrating and drinking wine.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. CHURCH – MORNING

Peter stands at the altar. He heaves a deep sigh. This is it. The moment he has been waiting for. Peggy will finally be his wife.

PETER’S BROTHER

(laughing)

Hey, you’re sweating. Wipe that off. You need to look good. This is your day.

His brother, the best man, hands his handkerchief. He laughs to help his brother release his tension. He looks too nervous.

PETER

(laughing nervously)

Thank you, Brother.

PETER’S BROTHER

Come on, you got this! Smile!

The door opens and Peggy enters the church with teary eyes and a big smile on her face. The piano plays, and the violin follows. Peggy finally reaches the front. Peggy is touched when she sees her soon-to-be husband crying. And together, they face the priest.

PRIEST

Today, we are gathered to witness the union of Peter and Peggy…

CUT TO:

PRIEST

Peter, do you take Peggy to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?

Peter doesn’t hesitate.

PETER

(smiling with tears in his eyes)

I do.

PRIEST

Peggy, do you take Peter to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?

Peggy’s voice is equally firm.

PEGGY

(smiling with tears in her eyes)

I do.

Together, they exchange their rings.

PRIEST

You may now kiss the bride.

Their loved ones who attend clap their hands, rooting for the newly wedded couple. Peter and Peggy share a long, sweet kiss.

INT. RECEPTION HALL – AFTERNOON

A simple celebration with their loved ones full of laughter and blissful happiness.

Mabel wipes her eyes discreetly. Jack taps Peter on the shoulder.

JACK

You chose well.

Peter smiles gratefully. His heart warmed by their support.

PETER’S BROTHER

(laughing)

No drama please! Let’s enjoy ourselves until we drop!

They all laugh and giggle. They make a toast for Peter and Peggy.

INT. RECEPTION – LATER - EARLY EVENING

Peter and Peggy steal a quiet moment. He holds Peggy’s hand and kisses her forehead gently.

PETER

You look exquisite. I can’t believe you’re my wife now.

PEGGY

(blushing)

I love you, my husband.

CUT TO:

INT. LAKESIDE CABIN – NIGHT

The newly wedded couple enter the cabin. They are nervous about their honeymoon.

Fireplace. Wooden walls. Romantic candles all over. Scattered roses on the bed.

Peter draws closer to Peggy. Her face goes crimson.

PETER

Are you okay?

PEGGY

Yes.

PETER

(chuckles)

You seem nervous.

PEGGY

(flustered)

I-I’m not!

Peter smiles and squeezes her hand.

PETER

I love you, my wife.

They stare at each other for a while and share an intimate kiss.

INT. HOME – MORNING

Birds chirp. From outside the house, the camera slowly pushes in through the living room window.

Inside, the family welcomes their newborn son into their first home. Unpacked boxes are scattered around the room. A newly assembled crib sits beside the couch.

Peggy hums as she rocks their newborn to sleep.

PEGGY

(whispers)

I love you, my darling sweet.

Peter feels unexplainable emotions he wasn’t able to feel before.

PETER

Can I carry him?

Peggy nods willingly. He takes the baby in his arms gently. Peter has the urge to cry but stops himself.

PETER

(whispers)

Hi, my love. So beautiful like your mom.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. HOME – TWO YEARS LATER – MORNING

Show on screen: TWO YEARS LATER

It is a chaotic early morning. A toddler runs across the hallway. Another baby, their second son, cries from a highchair. Peggy moves efficiently between the kitchen and living room.

Peter just got off work. He enters the hallway and sees his toddler giggling at him excitedly. The toddler clings to his leg.

TODDLER

Daddy!

Peter scoops him up automatically. He approaches Peggy, who is cradling their baby, with a kiss.

PETER

How’s my wife?

Peggy smiles. Peter also gives their second son a kiss on the forehead.

PETER (V.O.)

What a lovely home to come back to each day.

CUT TO:

INT. HOUSE – YEARS LATER – EVENING

Their family is getting bigger. They are now a family of five, adding their youngest – a daughter.

Peggy sets down their favorite dish. Peter clears his throat. The chaotic children now get quiet as they hold hands for the blessing of the meal.

PETER

Bless us, O Lord, and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ our Lord.

ALL

Amen.

They release their hands. Peter watches his family eat dinner. A happy, loving family.

But he realizes something. They are a full Catholic household, they say grace before meals, and attend every obligatory Sunday Mass.

PEGGY

Are you okay?

Peggy holds his hand, worried, because she sees him zoning out.

PETER

Yes, I am just thinking. Let’s eat.

Something is missing, but he cannot pinpoint it.

EXT. CHURCH – SUNDAY MORNING

The family exits their car. The children are dressed formally but seem to be not in the mood. It feels like they are distant.

Peter locks the car as Peggy watches their children. They walk towards the church silently.

INT. CHURCH – DAY – CONTINUOUS

The family slides into a pew. The priest’s homily has started. His voice echoes in the church. But the eldest son stares somewhere blankly; the middle and youngest child are distracted by something.

Peggy gently corrects them. Peter listens to the homily intently.

PRIEST

Please stand and let us profess our faith…

CONGREGATION (V.O.)

I believe in God the Father Almighty…

Peter recites the words. He glances toward his children who were reciting. His children mumble the words without understanding. Like a repetition every Sunday.

A flicker of concern etches on his face.

INT. HOME – LIVING ROOM – LATER THAT DAY

The children play on the floor. Toys are scattered everywhere.

Peggy folds the laundry, while Peter stands by the window, watching his kids laugh. He should feel fulfilled, but he feels off. He looks at the crucifix on the wall, then at his children.

PETER

(whispering to himself)

I hope we’re doing this right.

Peggy hears him but doesn’t add to what he said. She feels her heart break.

INT. HOME – KITCHEN – NIGHT

The house is quieter now. Time flies so fast and the children are grown. Peggy sits at the kitchen countertop, hands folded tightly. Peter stands at the sink, staring out the dark window. There is silence between them for a while.

PEGGY

Our children said not to force them to church anymore. They said it’s rude to impose.

Peter doesn’t say a single word.

PEGGY (CONT’D)

Not just this Sunday. Not at all.

Peggy is struggling and hurting. Peter holds her hand, comforting her.

PETER

They’re still young, they have a lot to learn.

Peggy shakes her head.

PEGGY

We took them to church every Sunday; we sent them to Catholic school. We prayed with them. I guess it wasn’t enough.

Her voice begins to crack, her eyes water.

PEGGY (CONT’D)

What did I do wrong?

Peter brings her closer for a comforting hug.

PETER

You didn’t do anything wrong.

She looks at him sadly.

PEGGY

I’ve failed.

Once again, there is a moment of silence.

PETER

They’ll return.

PEGGY

How do you know?

He exhales.

PETER

Because we raised them well. Because what they were taught doesn’t disappear just like that. And because most people wander before they settle. You are a good mom, don’t forget that.

She studies him.

PEGGY

You don’t seem worried.

PETER

I think faith has to become their own. I also believe everything will be alright.

She looks down at her hands.

PEGGY

I just wanted them to love God.

They go quiet afterwards.

In the background, the crucifix hangs on the wall. For the first time, Peter glances at it with a question.

INT. HOME - LIVING ROOM – EVENING

Peter sits while reading something related to his work. His eldest son, now in his mid-teens, stands awkwardly nearby.

ELDEST SON

Hey, Dad.

Peter looks up.

PETER

Yes, what’s up? How are you?

ELDEST SON

Well…a school friend invited me to participate in a retreat. She’s persistent so I said yes.

PETER

Retreat? About what?

ELDEST SON

It’s a youth retreat called COR or Christ in Others Retreat.

Peter’s eyes subtly widen.

PETER

Really?

ELDEST SON

Yeah. You and Mom should come.

Peter gives him a gentle smile and nods eagerly.

PETER

Of course, Son.

This is what he told Peggy, that their son will just come around.

Peter studies him. This is the same son who once rejected Mass. Something has changed, and Peter cannot wait to tell Peggy about it.

EXT. RETREAT CENTER – DAY

Peter, Peggy, and their eldest son arrive together. They are greeted warmly.

THE RETREAT HOST

Welcome, participants and co-parents!

Peter learns that the couple running the retreat is introduced as the retreat “mother” and “father”. Volunteers like Peter and Peggy are introduced as “co-parents”.

MONTAGE - FIELD TRIP - DAY

Small groups of participants and team members visit nursing homes, hospital wards, or assisted-living facilities, where they are encouraged to reach out to the residents.

INT. BACK OFFICE – AFTERNOON

Peter and Peggy sit at a table with former retreatants, who prepare and clean up the dining and meeting rooms.

They also write personal letters to as many retreatants as they choose, expressing their agape love for them, their empathy with them and their emotional support.

Retreatants’ parents, in absentia, were also encouraged to write a love letter to their child as well. A packet of love letters is prepared for each retreatant.

INT. RETREAT CENTER – NIGHT

The participants are now given their packet and are encouraged to go off alone to read their letters. Peter sees a young girl in tears. He hesitates but prays before God to help him succeed. He sits beside her quietly for a while.

PETER

How are you feeling?

RETREATANT

(sobbing quietly)

I didn’t know my parents loved me. No one has told me they love me.

PETER (V.O.)

As I sat with her, I felt a strong love for her even though she was a complete stranger. I felt her need for my presence and love. I thought I felt God’s presence.

Peter gives her a gentle and warm smile.

PETER

Just remember that you are not alone…

PETER (V.O.)

I made a commitment to myself to never again be too busy or distracted to spend the time to love another. I was far from loving God, but I had made a start at selflessly loving others. Most importantly for me, I was finally and surprisingly being guided partly by my heart rather than solely by my mind.

INT. PARTICIPATION HOUSE – DAY

After the retreat ended, Peter decides to visit a resident he met on his COR group’s field trip. The resident he chooses suffers from cerebral palsy. It is a humble assisted-living residence.

Peter sees staff members moving calmly. A staff member greets him warmly.

STAFF

Welcome!

Peter smiles and nods politely.

INT. RESIDENCE - ALF’S ROOM - CONTINUOUS

When he enters the room, Peter sees the man, he had met on the COR field trip, in a wheelchair which he moves by slapping at a joystick.

PETER

Good morning!

ALF

H-he…hello…

Peter could not understand as Alf drools while trying to articulate the words. Alf is friendly but Peter is incapable of dealing with the situation. He makes an exit after a while of trying to make a conversation with Alf.

PETER

(smiling awkwardly)

PETER (CON’T)

Thank you so much for your time. I will be back, I promise.

INT. ALF’S ROOM – A FEW DAYS LATER – DAY

Determined to progress in selflessness, Peter is back in the room, where he learns his name is Alf. He is positive and friendly.

Peter tries to extend his patience a bit more.

ALF

(stuttering but smiling)

Y-y-you are r-r-r-really b-back…

Alf lies in a specialized bed. Peter notices that Alf remains smiling and bright.

Peter sits beside Alf as he tries to understand what Alf is trying to say to him.

PETER

(smiling brightly)

Yes, I am back! I told you I will be back, and here I am. How are you doing?

MONTAGE - PARTICIPATION HOUSE

INT. ALF’S ROOM – A FEW YEARS LATER – DAY

Alf gives Peter a copy of the autobiography he has had published.

PETER(V.O.)

Over the weeks and months my feelings went from discomfort with him, to admiration of him, to a love of him. My trepidation in anticipation of each visit faded away once I was with him.

PETER (V.O.) (CONT’D)

The visits themselves were less difficult and more rewarding. I realized selfless love is an act of will. It does not depend upon attraction. I could have a selfless and unconditional love for this person. I was beginning to suspect my eternal life was dependent upon me learning to selflessly love. I was gradually learning to use my heart as well as my mind. However, I was still not loving God.

INT. RETREAT HOUSE – NIGHT

Peter and Peggy attend a couples’ retreat called Marriage Encounter. Married couples like them sit in pairs, introducing themselves and stating their expectations seated on a floor in a circle in a candle-lit room. Peter sits beside Peggy and holds hands with her.

FACILITATOR

Good evening, couples! Please feel comfortable and warm as we prepare for tomorrow’s activity. For now, please get to know other couples and then have a good night’s sleep.

Peter and Peggy roam around to greet the other couples.

PETER

(shaking hands)

Hello, I’m Peter. This is my wife, Peggy. How are you doing?

MARRIED COUPLE #1

Hello, nice to meet you!

MARRIED COUPLE #2

We’re doing good. How about you?

Peter, Peggy, and the rest of the couples have a great night of fellowship.

INT. RETREAT HOUSE – THE NEXT DAY - MORNING

FACILITATOR

Good morning! For today, I have an individual assignment for each of you. Please list all the things you love about your spouse. You are given thirty minutes.

Peter and Peggy each write a list and share them.

PEGGY

(tearing up)

Wow. I didn’t expect this, my love.

Peter sees Peggy’s tears of joy as she reads his list and feels the same as he reads hers. They both feel like they are falling in love all over again. Peter kisses her forehead.

PETER

I love you.

PEGGY

I love you more!

INT. RETREAT HOUSE – AFTERNOON

The facilitator claps his hand in enthusiasm.

FACILITATOR

How was the first assignment? Are you all feeling good?

Some couples nod happily, while some murmur satisfied responses.

FACILITATOR (CONT’D)

For this afternoon, note that this is still an individual activity. I want you to list all the things for which you thank God. You have thirty minutes.

All of them are given paper to write.

Thirty minutes later, they gather and consolidate their individual lists onto a series of flip charts.

The group’s consolidated list contains fifty-one things for which they thanked God. Peter realizes that they were experiencing the same thing they had experienced before lunch. They were falling in love with God.

PETER(V.O.)

It made us feel that love. It had made that feeling of love stronger. Now we were looking at a list of fifty-one things to love about God. As well, that same list was evidence of how much God loved all of us. Following the retreat, I began calling my wife from work at least once a day and looking forward to her calls no matter what situations I was dealing with. The more we felt our love for each other, the more we focused our attention on each other. The more we focused our attention on each other, the more we felt our love for each other.

Peter concludes that this same virtuous circle might help them grow a feeling of love for God.

INT. IBM BOSS’ OFFICE – DAY’S LATER – DAY

Peter, in his early 50s, sits on the sofa right across from his boss.

BOSS

Peter, I want to offer you an incentive to retire with a pension based on 50% of the average of your three best years’ earnings.

PETER

But, boss, I’m 52. I’m not ready. I couldn’t maintain my lifestyle.

BOSS

Think of it this way, Peter. If you stay, you’ll be working for 50% dollars – your income less the 50% you’re giving up in pension. If you leave, you’ll only need to earn 50% of your current earnings to break even.

PETER

Doing what? I’m not an entrepreneur, and I don’t want to work for a competitor.

BOSS

Launch a management consulting practice. You’ve proven your consulting prowess over your past three years here, and your risk will be minimal as you will have the pension to fall back on in lean periods between contracts.

PETER

I see working for 50% dollars doesn’t make sense. I accept your offer. I hope you will become my first client.

BOSS

Quite likely, Peter. We’ll still need your expertise.

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE – DAY

Peter establishes a home office, which makes it easier to pursue personal interests in parallel with consulting contracts. In his 50s, his second career begins.

He decides to devote his time between contracts to researching life’s purpose starting with atheists’ and apologists’ writings.

At his desk, Peter quietly immerses himself in C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

For him, it presents a unique and convincing argument that God exists, Christ is the Son of God and God dislikes sin (rather than the sinner).

PETER (V.O.)

I couldn’t concentrate. My mind kept flashing back to Christian and my baptism and confirmation. They had reassured Peggy that I believed and had enabled our marriage. However, my “belief” was that Christianity “was more likely than not to be true”. I

couldn’t lose the nagging feeling - “how likely it was that Christianity was not true”. How could I dismiss all the thinking that had led to my atheism. I needed to revisit that thinking with my fellow atheist, Nathan, with whom I had developed it. I invited him for an afternoon get-together in my office.

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE - HOME OFFICE – AFTERNOON

Stacks of books surround Peter early in the morning.

Peter reads and at the same time, writes notes. A few hours later, somebody knocks on the door.

NATHAN

Hi, Bro. How’s it hangin’?

PETER

Hi, Nathan. Thanks for coming over for a few hours.

NATHAN

A few hours? Are we into something heavy?

PETER

I need your help in questioning the thinking that supported our atheism. Are you OK with this? Can we start by listing what led us to our atheism on this whiteboard?

NATHAN

Let’s do it, man!

Peter turns to his whiteboard and begins to list their arguments one by one. {SHOW WHITEBOARD ON SCREEN AS THEY BUILD IT}

PETER

(gestures to the whiteboard)

Fire away, Nate.

NATHAN

Well, for starters, see no God, touch no God, hear no God!

PETER

No loving God would create a world full of evil!

NATHAN

No loving God would subject us to pain!

NATHAN (CONT’D)

We’re on a roll, Petes.

PETER

Even to life-long suffering!

NATHAN

Any all-powerful God could come up with better alternatives!

PETER

No loving God would continuously insist we are sinful!

NATHAN

No loving God would demand that we continuously ask for forgiveness!

PETER

Even, including those who don’t even know He finds them sinful!

NATHAN

No loving God would shower gifts on some and not on others!

PETER

No loving God would resort to punishment!

NATHAN

No loving God would threaten us with hell!

PETER

No loving god would be vengeful!

NATHAN

Even the world’s religions disagree with each other about God!

PETER

If there were a loving God, religious leaders would not be evil!

{THIS COMPLETES THE ARGUMENTS THEY HAVE BEEN DEVELOPING ON THE WHITEBOARD}

NATHAN

OK, Petes. Satisfied? I’d say, “Case closed!”

PETER

I’m not so sure, Nate! Can we give them another noodle one at a time?

NATHAN

Knock yourself out, Petes, but it’s a waste of time. We’ve already thought it all through.

PETER

Humour me, bro! Let’s start with the first reason.

Peter points to the first bullet on the whiteboard.

NATHAN

Pretty obvious, isn’t it? If there’s a God that loves us, I sure don’t see, feel or hear him!

PETER

Think of it this way, Nate. God loves us and wants us to choose to love Him. He can’t reveal His magnificence without overwhelming us, reducing us to puppets and taking away our choice to love Him as He wants.

NATHAN

So, you’re saying He’s there. He’s just hiding?

PETER

You could think of it that way, Nate! Let’s move on.

NATHAN

How do you explain evil?

PETER

God did not create evil. He gave us free will so we could choose to love Him. It is our free will that enables us to create evil.

NATHAN

Good one, Petes! What about pain?

PETER

Growth sometimes requires pain. For example, to teach our kids to ride a bike, we expose them to the pain of falls. Later, they realize that pain was necessary, even though they didn’t realize it at the time.

Similarly, for us to grow in love, sometimes we need to experience others’ pain even though we don’t understand why at the time.

NATHAN

But isn’t life-long suffering going a bit overboard?

PETER

Life-long for us is a short afternoon for God and for our eternal lives. Just as we expose our kids to no more pain than is necessary for their growth, God exposes us to no more pain than is needed for our growth.

NATHAN

But an all-powerful God must have better arrows in his quiver!

PETER

We rarely see in others the selfless love that we all need to achieve. But we do see it in the care provided to those in chronic pain and to challenged people. We may need to experience life-long hardship in ourselves and others to adequately develop our capacity for selfless love.

NATHAN

I don’t think most people are sinful, so why does God insist they are?

PETER

Agreed! Most people try to be good and avoid evil. However, sin is not the same as evil. Sin is failing to

do the will of God to the best of our ability. We tell our children when they fail to do our will to the best of their ability to enable them to recognize and correct their failing. Similarly, God’s insistence enables us to recognize and correct our failing.

NATHAN

But why insist that we ask forgiveness when we don’t intend to sin?

PETER

We may not intend to sin, but we may not intend not to sin. It’s that failure that requires us to ask forgiveness. We insist that our children ask for forgiveness so they can internalize their failing and set about its correction. God’s insistence does the same for us.

NATHAN

You’re batting a thousand my friend! But what about the people that don’t even know they are in sin?

PETER

Not knowing it is the sin of complacency. Why don’t we know it? Is it because we feel we are no worse than most other people? Is it because we avoid evil? Could God’s insistence that we ask forgiveness, be His way of helping us overcome our complacency?

NATHAN

This God thing ain’t easy! But why would a loving God withhold His gifts from some of His children?

PETER

If everyone were equally gifted, we wouldn’t need each other. Could it be that to whom much is given much is demanded? Are the gifted held to a higher bar?

NATHAN

Maybe! But this next one is a real toughie! The best of us don’t punish our children. Surely, a perfect God would not punish us.

PETER

In insisting, He is not punishing. He is simply warning us that we may be the ones punishing ourselves. When we use our free will to choose not to do God’s

will, we are the authors of our own separation from God. God’s insistence may be His loving way of helping us avoid deploying our gifts of free will to our detriment.

NATHAN

But hell? C’mon!

PETER

Think about it this way, Nathan. Heaven is a place of selfless and unconditional love; must we not develop that capacity to be a part of it? If we choose not to, is not our hell – separation from God – self-inflicted? A good scare is worth more than good advice. His insistence on the danger of a self-inflicted hell may be the most loving gift of a loving God.

NATHAN

But a vengeful God cannot be a perfectly loving God.

PETER

It’s true that the Old Testament repeatedly portrays God as vengeful. But Jesus corrected its authors’ portrayals by teaching that God loves us selflessly and unconditionally.

NATHAN

But if God wordlessly revealed Himself to His children, why do they disagree on what God revealed?

PETER

Because God reveals Himself wordlessly, religions interpret His revelation differently and as a result their teachings differ.

NATHAN

If God is good, why are some religious leaders evil?

PETER

Religious leaders are simply fallible human beings. That some do evil is no more an indication that God is evil or that He created evil than is the fact that some of us do evil.

NATHAN

You make some impressive arguments, Peter, but I’m not ready to reject atheism. The internet is full of

learned people, like Richard Dawkins who wrote The God Delusion, {SHOW ON SCREEN}. They present some pretty impressive supportive arguments.

PETER

But have any of them come up with an argument other than these that we’ve just refuted?

NATHAN

I can’t think of one, but all these on our whiteboard simply show that we can’t know God doesn’t exist. None of them support the position that God does exist.

PETER

Good point! We’d have to find sound arguments that God does exist. Remember our classmate, Christine?

NATHAN

Of course! Who could forget a babe like her?

PETER

But weren’t you impressed with her intelligence? I understand she is now a philosophy professor. I wonder if philosophy might be successful in establishing sound reasoning that God does exist.

NATHAN

C’mon, Petes! Philosophy doesn’t prove anything! Those dudes simply dismiss each other’s thinking.

PETER

You can’t dismiss philosophy until

you’ve given it a lot more thought than either of us has. I’m going to give her a call. If she’ll meet with us, are you in?

NATHAN

Count me out, man! I’ll wait until you two can come up with something of substance.

As Nathan prepares to leave, Peggy comes out to greet him and say goodbye.

PETER (V.O.)

After leaving, Nathan texted me, “Peggy is still a knockout! You are one lucky guy.” I texted back, “I’d call it blessed!”

I surprise Peggy with a loving hug.

PEGGY

Wow! What brought that on?

PETER

I suddenly had an overwhelming feeling of how much I love you, my darling.

PEGGY

What was that long meeting all about?

PETER

My belief, Peggy! I sincerely believe but still have nagging doubts. I needed to dismiss all the thinking that Nathan and I had come up with for our atheism. Although I believe Christianity is more likely than not to be true, I can’t stop worrying about how likely it is that it might not be true.

PEGGY

Peter, I trust that your belief is well-founded. I know some people need to question their faith. It’s now clear to me that you are one of them. I can accept your questioning up to the point where it might result in your disbelief.

PETER

Do you ever question your belief, Peggy?

PEGGY

No, Peter. My belief is not based on substantiation. It’s based on love. I don’t need to question my faith. I pray that you will find the substantiation that you need.

PETER

Well, I have a new avenue to pursue. Philosophy might be the substantiation I need. Remember Christine? She’s now a philosophy professor. I’m going to ask her for help.

PEGGY

With my blessing, Peter.

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE - OFFICE – MORNING

Peter smiles at Christine when Peggy guides her into Peter’s office and leaves them alone.

CHRISTINE

Good morning, Peter. You have a lovely wife.

PETER

Good morning, Professor. Yes, I do!

Christine sits across from Peter.

PETER (CONT’D)

Christine, you probably remember my atheism. Since then, I’ve come to believe in the Apostle’s Creed. This enabled me to marry Peggy, who is a devout Roman Catholic. However, my belief was based solely on the feeling the Creed was more likely than not to be true. This leaves me doubtful…wondering how likely it is that it might not be true. More likely than not isn’t knowledge. It’s probability. Christine, I need your help in proving it’s true.

CHRISTINE

Well Peter, I cannot prove it’s true, nor can anyone. However, if you’re open to it, I can help you develop sound, reason-based knowledge whether it is true. Probability is not a certainty, but neither is certainty required for knowledge.

PETER

If it isn’t certain, how can I stake my life on it?

CHRISTINE

Peter, how much of what you act on every day is certain? When you wake up? When you spend time with your family? When you trust a colleague or when you cross an intersection? You act on what is sound and supported, not on what is mathematically proven.

Peter thinks for a while and studies her intently.

PETER

Define sound.

CHRISTINE

In formal reasoning? An argument is sound when two things are true: First, its logic is valid - the conclusion necessarily follows from the premises. Second, the premises themselves are true.

Christine pulls Peter’s legal pad toward her and writes {SHOW ON SCREEN}

CHRISTINE (CONT’D)

If both premises are true and the reasoning is valid, the conclusion must be accepted, even if you don’t like it.

PETER

(nodding)

That’s deductive reasoning.

CHRISTINE

Yes. And there’s inductive reasoning - the less familiar to most of us. Its basis is consistency of observation. If we consistently observe a condition to be the case, we can know it is the case where we have not observed it, or where we cannot observe it. For example…

Christine develops an example on the legal pad. {SHOW ON SCREEN}:

CHRISTINE (CONT’D)

If an exception can be observed (such as seeing a three-legged person), the proof is invalid.

PETER

What kind of knowledge is that? The first time an exception is observed, what you thought you knew would be proven wrong.

CHRISTINE

That type of knowledge is as good as it gets, Peter. The first time an exception to an observation supporting a scientific experiment is discovered, the scientific proof fails, and what the science community thought they knew is proven wrong. The first time an exception to a premise in a deductive argument is discovered, the argument is refuted and what the philosopher thought they knew is proven wrong. Humanity is incapable of knowing anything absolutely, Peter.

PETER

I see. Of course, you are correct.

CHRISTINE

Let’s begin with something simpler. Do you accept that truth exists?

PETER

Of course.

CHRISTINE

Do you accept that contradictory statements cannot both be true?

PETER

Law of non-contradiction.

She smiles.

CHRISTINE

(nodding)

Good. Then if Christianity makes truth claims, we examine them the same way you examine engineering claims.

PETER

So, we test the premises.

CHRISTINE

Exactly.

Christine writes on Peter’s legal pad {SHOW ON SCREEN}:

Premise one - Whatever begins to exist has a cause.

Premise two - The universe began to exist.

Conclusion - The universe has a cause.

Peter stiffens slightly.

PETER

That’s not proof of the Christian God.

CHRISTINE

Correct. It establishes only one supported conclusion: There is a cause beyond the universe. It is not about blind faith; it’s about examining whether the premises behind Christianity are defensible.

Peter processes this for a while.

PETER

So, knowledge isn’t solely dependent on scientific proof; it depends on sound reasoning built on supported premises.

CHRISTINE

Yes, scientific proof is one form of knowing. But philosophy addresses questions science cannot test like purpose, meaning, and moral obligation.

PETER

If the reasoning holds, then rejecting the conclusion would be irrational.

CHRISTINE

Precisely.

PETER

So, I need to know whether the case for God is merely probable or is based on soundly supported reasoning.

Christine nods.

CHRISTINE

Okay, let’s end the discussion for today.

INT. PROFESSOR’S OFFICE – DAY

Christine smiles as Peter enters her office.

CHRISTINE

Hello, Peter. Welcome. How are you doing?

PETER

I’m doing good, Professor. I want to show you what I’ve been working on.

He opens his legal pad and places a pad of post-it notes, with the bottom half cut off, on her desk.

PETER (CONT’D)

You said: if the premises are true and the reasoning is valid, the conclusion must be accepted. So, I tried to build something sound.

CHRISTINE

(smiling)

With post-it notes, Peter? I must say post-it notes are not an established tool of philosophy!

PETER

Don’t knock it until you try it, you philosopher, you!

Christine gestures for him to proceed. Peter sits beside Christine and places his post-it notes, one at a time, on a fresh page of his legal pad as he describes his reasoning.

(SHOW LEGAL PAD ON SCREEN AS EACH POST-IT NOTE IS ADDED TO IT)

PETER

Christine, has humanity ever discovered something that can create itself?

CHRISTINE

Not that I’m aware of, Peter.

Post-it We know of nothing that can create itself

PETER

Would you agree that, until we can find an exception, inductive reasoning establishes that we and our world must have had a cause – a creator.

Post-it Everything we can observe must have had a cause {INDUCTIVE REASONING}

Peter leans back.

CHRISTINE

So far, so good. Inductive reasoning.

PETER

Now for some deductive reasoning. The first cause cannot, itself, have a cause or it wouldn’t be the first cause.

Post-it The first cause must be independent of cause {BY DEFINITION}

PETER (CONT’D)

We and everything we know must have been created (the result of the first cause).

Post-it The first cause caused, or created everything that can be observed {BY DEFINITION}

PETER (CONT’D)

Since the first cause cannot have had a cause, it must have always existed – must have been eternal

Post-it The first cause must always have existed {BY DEFINITION}

PETER (CONT’D)

So, Christine, would you not agree that because these premises are all correct, they necessarily establish our conclusion by deductive reasoning?

Post-it The first cause is independent of cause, created everything and always existed {DEDUCTIVE REASONING}

Peter underlines the conclusion.

PETER (CONT’D)

This is how most people would describe God!

Christine studies him carefully and folds her arms, impressed.

CHRISTINE

But, Peter, people may call that being God, but it doesn’t establish the attributes of what we call God.

PETER

Let me noodle on that, Christine. Can we meet again in a week?

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE - OFFICE – A WEEK LATER

Peter is focused, less restless than before. Once again, Christine is guided by Peggy towards the office. She brings them some refreshments.

PETER

Thank you, my love.

CHRISTINE

Thank you, Peggy. You are so kind.

PEGGY

(smiling)

No problem. Call me if you need anything.

As Peggy closes the door, Christine turns her gaze to Peter.

CHRISTINE

How has your reasoning developed, Peter? Have you succeeded in developing soundly supported reasoning that our creator loves us and desires a relationship with us?

PETER

Strap on your seatbelt, Christine!

CHRISTINE

You’ve earned my curiosity, Peter. Reason on!

PETER

By way of introduction to this argument, we note that, while we can’t know anything about a non-present creator, we do know a lot about creation. Everything we know about creation of beings is what we experience, as procreators in our parenting of our children, so we’ll begin there.

Peter sits beside Christine, opens his legal pad and, once again, develops his reasoning, adding a post-it note for each of the premises he voices. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER

Christine, do you know of any parent that doesn’t love their child?

CHRISTINE

That goes without saying, Peter.

Post-it Every capable being (parent) we see, that creates with intent, loves the beings they create (children)

CHRISTINE

So, once again, until we can find an exception, inductive reasoning establishes that all creators love what they create.

Post-it All capable beings, that create with intent, love the beings they create {INDUCTIVE REASONING}

PETER

Because God created everything, and creation cannot be an accident, we know God is capable and always acts with intent.

Post-it God is capable and always acts with intent. {PRIOR ARGUMENT}

CHRISTINE (CONT’D)

But, wait, Peter, can you really defend your inductive reasoning? What about unintended procreation, rape and those who can’t love, either due to extreme narcissism or never having been loved themselves.

PETER

All true, Christine, but because God is capable and always acts with intent, we need only consider the subset of parents who are capable and act with intent. Would you not agree that this subset supports my inductive reasoning?

CHRISTINE

You’re right, of course. Next?

PETER

So, because all capable beings that create with intent, love the beings they create, and God is capable and always acts with intent, deductive reasoning establishes that God loves everything he creates (all of us)

Post-it God loves what he creates (all of us) {DEDUCTIVE REASONING}

CHRISTINE

I’m impressed, Peter. Your reasoning establishes sound knowledge that God loves what He creates – all of us. Where do you go from here?

PETER

Let me present my sound reasoning that God created us to live with Him for eternity. As before, we apply what we experience in parenthood.

Peter turns his legal pad to the next page and, as before, adds a post-it note for each of the premises he voices. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER

Christine, do you know of any parent that intends that their child predeceases them?

CHRISTINE

Of course not, Peter

Post-it Every capable being (parent) we see, that creates with intent, intends that the beings they create (children) do not predecease them

CHRISTINE

And, as before, inductive reasoning establishes that all capable beings, that create with intent, intend that the beings they create do not predecease them.

Post-it All capable beings, that create with intent, intend the beings they create do not predecease them {INDUCTIVE REASONING}

PETER

As we already established, God is capable of everything and always acts with intent…

Post-it God is capable and always acts with intent {PRIOR ARGUMENT}

PETER (CONT’D)

… and is eternal.

Post-it God is eternal {PRIOR ARGUMENT}

PETER(CONT’D)

So, as before when you pair these last two premises with the prior premise (which I created using inductive reasoning), it follows by deductive reasoning that God intends that we live with Him for eternity.

Post-it God intends that we live with Him for eternity. {DEDUCTIVE REASONING}

CHRISTINE

Double wow, Peter! These two items of soundly supported knowledge have life-changing implications. If our creator loves us, we need to respond. If we are created for eternal life, we need to discern the purpose for the earthly portion of our lives.

PETER

Clearly! Let me work at the prerequisite reasoning that enables that discernment before our next meeting.

INT. PROFESSOR’S OFFICE – DAY

Peter bursts into Christine’s office, confident she’ll be there for their next meeting, and shouts:

PETER

Greetings! I bring you tidings of great joy!

Startled, Christine looks up and then smiles.

CHRISTINE

Are you the angel sent to the Virgin Mary?

Peter chuckles.

PETER

I’m sure the Virgin Mary is already all-knowing about this!

Peter opens his legal pad and adopts a more professional persona.

PETER (CONT’D)

I believe I have developed the sound reasoning we need to discern the purpose of our earthly lives.

Christine looks at Peter skeptically.

CHRISTINE

How sure are you, Peter? I know of no one who has succeeded in this.

Peter carries on excitedly.

PETER

I’m very sure, but if I’m wrong, I need you to refute my logic.

Christine looks at Peter worriedly.

CHRISTINE

OK, Peter, but don’t get discouraged if I rain on your parade.

Peter turns his legal pad to the next page and, as before, adds a post-it note for each of the premises he voices. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER

Christine, do you know of any parent that intends that their children not love them and their siblings as much as they love their children?

CHRISTINE

I must admit that I haven’t really thought that through, but now that you suggest it, I’d have to say no.

Post-it Every capable being (parent) we see, that creates with intent, intends that their created (children) love them and their siblings as much as they love their created (children)

CHRISTINE (CONT’D)

And, as before, inductive reasoning establishes that all capable beings, that create with intent, intend that their created (children) love them and their siblings as much as they love their created (children).

Post-it All capable beings, that create with intent, intend that their created love them and their siblings as much as they love their created. {INDUCTIVE REASONING}

PETER

And, because God is all-powerful and all-knowing…

Post-it God is capable and always acts with intent {PRIOR ARGUMENT}

PETER (CONT’D)

…when we pair these last two premises, deductive reasoning establishes that God intends all His children (all of us) love Him and all His children as He loves us.

Post-it God intends all His children (all of us) love Him and all His children as He loves us {DEDUCTIVE REASONING}

PETER

Now, because we know the love of a perfect (all-powerful and all-knowing) being must be perfect (selfless and unconditional) …

Post-it The love of a perfect (all-powerful and all-knowing) being is perfect (selfless and unconditional) {SELF EVIDENT}

PETER (CONT’D)

…when we pair these last two premises, deductive reasoning establishes that God intends that we selflessly and unconditionally love Him and all His children.

Post-it God intends that we selflessly and unconditionally love Him and all His children {DEDUCTIVE REASONING}

CHRISTINE

I see where you’re going with this, Peter. The purpose of the lives God created must be God’s intent in creating them (all of us). But might there be more to God’s intent in creating us? If so, must there not be more to the purpose of our lives?

PETER

Good question, Christine. Give me some time to explore that. Let’s continue our journey to discover life’s purpose in our next session.

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE - DECK – AFTERNOON

Peter and Christine are luxuriating on a sunny afternoon as Peggy joins them, bringing a jug of ice-cold lemonade and two glasses.

PEGGY

I’m guessing this is going to be yet another of your long conversations? How are they going?

CHRISTINE

Your husband is quite analytical, Peggy. He has presented me with some pretty sound reasoning about the purpose of our lives.

PEGGY

Well, isn’t that obvious? For me, the purpose of our lives is to worship God and be a good person.

CHRISTINE

But what if there’s more to it?

PEGGY

(smiling)

I’ll leave that question to you two. Knock yourselves out!

Peggy blows them a kiss as she leaves.

PETER

Shall we have at it, Christine?

CHRISTINE

I’m chompin’ at the bit!

Peter turns his legal pad to the next page and, as before, adds a post-it note for each of the premises he voices. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER

Christine, have you ever heard of parents who do not want their children to do their best?

Post-it Every capable being (parent) we see, that creates with intent, intends that their created (children) achieve their best

CHRISTINE

Yes and as before, inductive reasoning establishes that all capable beings, that create with intent, intend that their created achieve their best.

Post-it All capable beings that create with intent, intend that their created achieve their best. {INDUCTIVE REASONING}

PETER

And, because God is all-powerful and all-knowing…

Post-it God is capable and always acts with intent {PRIOR ARGUMENT}

PETER (CONT’D)

…when we pair these last two premises, deductive reasoning establishes that God intends all His children (all of us) achieve our best (as much as we are able).

Post-it God intends all His children (all of us) achieve our best (as much as we are able) {DEDUCTIVE REASONING}

PETER

Because we have already established that God intends that we unconditionally love Him and all His children…

Post-it God intends that we selflessly and unconditionally love Him and all His children {PRIOR ARGUMENT}

PETER (CONT’D)

…and the purpose of our lives must be our creator’s purpose…

Post-it The purpose of our lives must be our Creator’s intent in creating us {SELF-EVIDENT}

PETER (CONT’D)

…when we pair these last three premises, deductive reasoning establishes that the purpose of our lives must be to selflessly and unconditionally love Him and all His children as well as we are able.

Post-it Life’s purpose is to love God and all His children selflessly and unconditionally as well as we are able {DEDUCTIVE REASONING}

CHRISTINE

(sitting back)

Peter, your reasoning is flawless. I doubt any philosopher could succeed in refuting it. It’s also staggering. We have discovered life’s purpose. We know it, as well as we know anything!

PETER

(reflectively)

And part of life’s purpose must be to help others discover and achieve life’s purpose. We can’t love all of God’s children as selflessly and unconditionally as we are able without doing our best to help others discover and achieve life’s purpose.

CHRISTINE

That’s an even greater challenge than discovering life’s purpose for ourselves. I can think of three reasons why people would reject our best efforts…

Christine writes her reasons on post-it notes, placing each on the top half of a fresh page in Peter’s legal pad, as she states it to Peter. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

Post-it It sounds too much like the religion they have already rejected

Post-it It demands they change their lives which makes them uncomfortable

Post-it Their doubt holds them back and results in them putting it aside

PETER

But, Christine, can’t they see that none of these reasons are reasonable?

Peter writes his responses on post-it notes, placing each on the bottom half of the same page in his legal pad, as he states it to Christine. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

Post-it Can it be in anyone’s best interest to reject sound reasoning simply because religion takes a similar position?

Post-it Can it be in anyone’s best interest to reject sound reasoning simply because it is discomforting?

Post-it Can it be in anyone’s best interest to reject sound reasoning simply because of unsupported doubt?

CHRISTINE

Peter, many people tire of reasoning and lose trust in it. As you know, you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.

PETER

I’m sad for them, Christine. But I can’t wait to share what I’ve established with Peggy. Let me ask her to join us.

Peter walks over to the sliding glass door and slides it open.

PETER

(calling out)

Peggy! You got a minute?

The soft slap of Peggy’s flip-flops echoes on the hardwood floor as she approaches.

PEGGY

(smiling)

Have you completed all the thinking you needed to do, Peter?

PETER

(taking her hand)

Well Peggy, I’ve completed the prerequisite thinking. I’ve overcome my nagging doubts about what I found more likely than not. I’ve developed sound and supported reasoning that establishes that the fundamental Christian teachings are true.

PEGGY

(chuckling)

I’m sure the Pope will be relieved!

INT. RETREAT – HALLWAY TO THE JESUIT’S OFFICE – DAY

Peter walks towards the office of Roman, a Jesuit. Peter’s back to the camera.

PETER (V.O.)

Having discovered, with Christine’s help, that life’s purpose aligned with the fundamental Christian teachings, I started to more seriously examine the teachings with which I was not comfortable. I learned of a religious retreat and attended it. There I met the Jesuit facilitator, Roman. As the retreat was concluding, I asked him if I could visit with him to pursue some thinking that was bothering me. He agreed and we scheduled a meeting in his home. Five minutes early, I knocked on his door.

INT. RETREAT - JESUIT’S OFFICE – CONTINUOUS

The camera pans to the wooden door; a few knocks echo in the room. The Jesuit, Roman, opens the door with a friendly smile on his face.

ROMAN

Hello. Peter, right?

PETER

Yes, hello, Roman. A pleasure to meet you again.

ROMAN

Welcome. Please come in.

Peter enters the room, and Roman closes the door.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

What can I do for you?

PETER

These past few weeks, I’ve been meeting with a philosophy professor. She helped me produce sound and supported knowledge that God truly exists, that He loves us, that He created us to live with Him forever, and that He has established a purpose for our lives.

Roman is impressed. He nods and smiles gently.

ROMAN

That’s an impressive journey. You’ve made huge progress.

Peter shakes his head slightly.

PETER

But now I’ve hit a wall.

Peter pauses for a while before continuing.

PETER (CONT’D)

So, the Church claims that the Bible is the Word of God, the Catechism presents binding truth and that Jesus is the Son of God, fully divine. Where is the substantiation?

ROMAN

You want the same level of reasoning you applied to God’s existence.

PETER

(nodding)

Yes. If I’m going to accept that the Bible is divinely inspired, or that Jesus is truly God, then I need sound and supported knowledge. I need evidence, not traditions or personal sentiments.

Roman nods.

ROMAN

Good! Faith does not fear reason, my son. Nor does it fear evidence and supported claims.

PETER

But when I read the Scriptures, I see claims. When I read the Catechism, I see assertions. How do I know they are true? How do I know the Church isn’t mistaken?

Roman folds his hands calmly.

ROMAN

Those are not small questions. They deserve time. Would you be willing to meet weekly?

PETER

To do what?

ROMAN

We’ll examine the historical reliability of Scripture. We’ll also evaluate the claims about Jesus, and explore why the Church holds that the Bible and the Catechism are the Word of God and that Christ is divine.

Peter considers this carefully.

PETER

And if the reasoning fails?

ROMAN

Then, Peter, you should reject it.

Peter’s eyes widened at Roman’s unwavering faith and confidence.

PETER

You’re confident!

ROMAN

I’m patient, Peter, and I have God-fidence.

PETER

(laughs softly)

Alright. So, weekly it is?

Peter extends a hand to accept Roman’s invitation. Roman shakes his hand.

ROMAN

Deal. It’s an honor to help you, Peter. See you soon. May God bless you always, my son.

INT. RECTORY – NIGHT

Peter enters the priest’s house. Roman welcomes him with a warm smile.

ROMAN

Alright. Let’s start, shall we?

PETER

I’ve read the Gospels carefully. There are differences.

Roman gestures for him to continue.

PETER (CONT’D)

The Creation story is inconsistent with science. Different Bible authors express differing interpretations of the Word of God. Several major teachings differ from those of Jesus.

Peter looks up.

ROMAN

Let’s start with the Creation Story. When you explain something to a child, do you not express it in a way that the child can understand at its stage of development?

Peter leans forward inquisitively.

PETER

I never thought about it that way, but I guess it only makes sense.

ROMAN

What if God were doing the same thing?

Peter’s expression brightens with excitement.

PETER

I get it! The Big Bang and evolution would be beyond the comprehension of those to whom God was revealing His Word. Upon reflection, the Creation Story aligns with what we know from science. It starts with creation from nothing, which could have been the Big Bang 13 billion years ago. It then describes a progression of life forms similar to what Darwin described in his On the Origin of Species, published in 1859. Seen this way, there is no inconsistency between the Creation Story and the findings of science.

Roman smiles.

ROMAN

That’s a pretty good explanation of what you saw as an inconsistency!

Peter’s smile in return turns into a puzzled expression.

PETER

OK. But if the Bible is the Word of God, why are there inconsistencies?

The Jesuit nods, he sees this one coming.

ROMAN

Define what you mean by “Word of God”,

Peter pauses.

PETER

That God authored it.

JESUIT

Did He?

PETER

The Church says it is divinely inspired, that the Apostles and such co-authored it.

The Jesuit leans slightly forward.

ROMAN

Inspired does not mean dictated. Tell me, when you write something, does every word originate as a word in your mind?

PETER

No, the idea forms first.

ROMAN

Exactly.

Roman picks up the Bible.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

What if God placed truth, His revelation directly into the authors’ minds…but allowed them to express those truths in their own language, from their own perspective, and from their own interpretation?

PETER

So, the difference would reflect the human author, not error in divine truth?

ROMAN

Yes. Inspiration concerns what God intends to communicate, not same or consistent wording.

PETER

So, differences in narration do not negate the truth of the events themselves.

ROMAN

Correct. If four witnesses describe the same event with identical wording, what would you suspect?

PETER

Collusion.

ROMAN

Differences can indicate independent testimony.

PETER

So divine inspiration means God ensured the truth of what He intended to reveal but did not override human expression. It still depends on their interpretation.

ROMAN

(nodding)

Precisely.

PETER

Then my question is…did the authors misinterpret what they had experienced?

Roman holds his gaze.

ROMAN

That is the next level of analysis.

Peter processes all the information for a while.

PETER

But if God placed the truth into their minds, and they faithfully expressed or translated that truth, then the Bible can be the Word of God without being mechanically dictated.

Roman nods.

ROMAN

That is the Church’s position.

PETER

Then I cannot dismiss Scripture simply because of narrative differences.

ROMAN

Good.

PETER

Did Jesus actually claim to be God? And is there sufficient evidence that He is?

The Jesuit closes the Bible gently.

ROMAN

That’s enough for today, my son. Don’t want you to get information overload. We’ll pursue Jesus’ divinity next week.

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE - HOME OFFICE – NIGHT

Peter welcomes Roman to his office with a warm smile.

ROMAN

Good evening, Peter.

PETER

Good evening, Roman. Welcome to my office.

CUT TO:

PETER (CONT’D)

I can accept that there is a God who exists, that He loves us and that He has established a purpose for our lives. I can even accept that there is eternal life after death. But a man being God? That sounds absurd, just like those demigods turning into immortal gods and goddesses in Greek mythology.

Roman doesn’t answer yet.

PETER (CONT’D)

God disguising Himself as a fully human being? A carpenter? A man could be God in disguise? It sounds irrational and unfounded.

The Jesuit nods calmly.

ROMAN

It would be if there were no substantiation.

Roman gently slides the first book, Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, toward Peter. (CAMERA CLOSES ON BOOK #1)

ROMAN (CONT’D)

Here in this book, what Lewis is saying is that Jesus didn’t just teach good morals. He claimed to be God, He forgave sins, and that He would judge the world, so we can’t just call Him a great teacher…He’s either truly who He said He is, is deceived or is deceiving. Can you find anything to suggest the latter two interpretations?

Peter takes his time trying to be convinced but remains unsure. Roman slides the second book, I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist, forward. (CAMERA CLOSES ON BOOK #2)

ROMAN (CONT’D)

In this book, the authors basically say the Gospel writers would not make up embarrassing details, hard teachings, and verifiable claims, nor be willing to suffer and die for what they believed they had witnessed about Jesus.

Peter flips pages slowly, nodding.

Roman pushes the third book, The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel, towards Peter. (CAMERA CLOSES ON BOOK #3)

ROMAN (CONT’D)

Lastly, this book starts out trying to disprove the resurrection, but the more experts the author questions, the more the evidence points the other way – early eyewitness accounts, reliable documents, even medical explanations of Jesus’ death, plus the fact that people were willing to suffer and die for what they claimed to have seen. And in the end, it all becomes too strong to dismiss, leading him to conclude that the resurrection really happened and thus that Jesus is who He said He is.

Peter looks at the three books introduced by the priest.

PETER

So, the issue isn’t whether divinity is possible. It’s whether the evidence supports it.

ROMAN

Exactly. Look into it, explore, don’t just assume.

Roman gives the floor to Peter. He patiently waits as Peter rummages through the pages.

CUT TO:

PETER

If the Gospels are historically reliable, and if Jesus publicly claimed divine authority, insisted on His power to forgive sins and redefined the Sabbath…then we face a trilemma. If He claimed to be God, He was either deceived, deceiving, or just saying the truth. But His moral teachings don’t align with idiocy, and His willingness to suffer and face death doesn’t align with deception. And then there’s the Resurrection, the empty tomb, the transformation of the disciples, their willingness to die…if those events are historically credible, then the explanation that He is who He claimed to be is not irrational.

The Jesuit doesn’t say a word but gestures to him to continue.

PETER (CONT’D)

If God truly exists, then incarnation is not impossible. Jesus was not God in disguise. He was God Incarnate.

Roman nods, proud of Peter’s progress with the Lord.

ROMAN

Then the question is no longer speculative and abstract.

Peter looks at the crucifix on his desk and then at Roman.

INT. SKI RESORT LOBBY - A WEEK LATER

Peter and Roman did not meet. Peggy took a week’s vacation from the hospital where she served as a palliative care RN. Peter, Peggy, and their friends had booked their annual ski vacation.

It is a lovely sunny day and snow envelopes the mountains.

Peter, Peggy, and their group of friends gather at the top of a ski run, laughing and adjusting their gear. Peggy stands beside Peter uneasily. She feels something’s wrong with her.

FRIEND #1

Ready for our first run?

The group begins pushing off down the slope. Peggy tries to follow but suddenly winces, gripping her hip. Peter, concerned, immediately attends to his wife.

PETER

Peggy, what’s wrong? Are you okay?

PEGGY

It’s my hip…I’ll be OK.

She attempts to push forward but immediately stops; the pain is too sharp to move. Peggy winces.

The sound of the others skiing fades into the distance. Their friends are far away now.

PETER

You can’t ski like that.

Peggy looks down the half-mile descent, frustrated.

PEGGY

I guess I’m done for today. I’m sorry I ruined our holiday.

Peter kneels beside her. He kisses her forehead.

PETER

You are more important than the holiday, my love. Sit down.

Peggy lowers herself onto the snow and begins to slide down the half-mile slope. Peter gathers both pairs of skis over his shoulders.

PETER (CONT’D)

(smiling gently)

I’ll be behind you, don’t worry. We’ll improvise.

Peggy laughs despite the pain. She married the right man. They move slowly down the long white run together. Halfway down, Peggy looks back at him.

PEGGY

This isn’t quite the ski holiday we planned.

PETER

No…but we’ll get you treated when we get home.

CUT TO:

INT. HOME – EVENING

Peggy sits at the kitchen table with Peter. A brochure from the hospital lies open between them. Peter reaches across the table and takes her hand.

PETER

We’ll schedule a hip replacement as soon as possible.

Peggy nods, scared. Peter holds her hand and hugs her gently.

PETER (CONT’D)

I love you. We’ll get through this together. You are not alone.

Peggy smiles and tears up a little.

FADE TO BLACK:

INT. HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM – DAY

Today is Peggy’s hip replacement operation.

Peter sits alone in a quiet waiting room. He silently prays while waiting for Peggy’s operation.

After a while, a surgeon approaches, and Peter stands to meet him.

SURGEON

Mr. Peter?

PETER

Yes.

SURGEON

I’m happy to tell you the hip replacement went well. The operation was successful.

Peter exhales in relief, but the surgeon pauses, wanting to say more. He raises his thumb and forefinger, forming a small circle.

SURGEON

We did notice a small spot. About this size.

Peter’s countenance drastically changes. The surgeon taps his shoulder and starts to walk away.

SURGEON

We’ll take a closer look at it.

CUT TO:

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM – AFTERNOON

Peggy lies in the hospital bed, giving Peter a weak smile.

Peter enters and pulls a chair close beside her.

PETER

(holding her hand)

How are you, my love? The surgeon says the operation went well.

PEGGY

They told me about the spot.

Peter nods. He does not show any signs of sadness. He is trying to be strong for his wife.

PETER

He said he will look into it.

Peggy slowly shakes her head.

PEGGY

No, it’s bone cancer.

Peter stares at her.

PETER

Peggy, we don’t know that yet.

PEGGY

Yes, we do. Peter, I’m going to die soon.

She looks at him with the certainty of someone who has seen this too many times throughout her career. Peter sits back, unable to speak.

Peggy’s expression softens but remains firm.

PEGGY (CONT’D)

I’ve seen this too many times, Peter. It probably started somewhere else and spread.

Peter tries to hold onto hope. He holds her hand tightly and closes his eyes.

PETER

They’ll treat it. God will heal you, right?

Peggy looks at him gently. Silence fills the room.

FADE TO BLACK:

INT. HOME - BEDROOM – NIGHT

The room is dim and quiet.

Peggy sits up in bed. Heidi, a beautiful small white Siamese kitten, rests on her lap.

Peter sits beside the bed. Peggy holds a handheld morphine pump, pressing the button gently. Heidi curls closer to her.

Peter watches, helpless. She is in pain, but he can do nothing to ease her suffering. Peggy looks up toward the ceiling. Her eyes suddenly widen.

PEGGY

(scared, shaky voice)

Peter…do you see them?

Peter looks up and sees nothing but the ceiling fan. The ceiling fan turns slowly, its blades casting shadows across the ceiling.

PETER

See what?

Peggy points weakly.

PEGGY

The bats - they’re flying around the room.

Peter gently takes her hand.

PETER

There are no bats, Peg. It’s just the fan.

Peggy continues watching the ceiling, half convinced. She turns her head toward him.

PEGGY

Where are you?

PETER

I’m right here.

She squeezes his hand weakly.

PEGGY

Don’t leave.

PETER

(kisses her forehead)

I won’t. I’m here, my love. I love you so much.

PEGGY

I love you more.

INT. HOME - BEDROOM - NEXT DAY

A priest stands beside the bed. Peggy is weak but conscious. Peter kneels beside her.

The priest anoints her forehead with oil.

PRIEST

Through this holy anointing, may the Lord in His love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Peggy closes her eyes peacefully. Peter bows his head. Peggy receives the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.

CUT TO:

(SHOW ON SCREEN: A WEEK LATER)

Peggy lies, weaker now. Her sister, also a nurse, visits and sits beside the bed. Peter stands nearby. The sister gently takes Peggy’s hand, then looks at Peter.

She quietly points to Peggy’s fingernails and toenails, which have turned blue.

SISTER

(softly, in tears)

Her body is shutting down.

Peter nods slowly, absorbing the words, trying to accept reality. Peter sits beside Peggy, holding her hand. Heidi sleeps at her side.

Peggy exhales softly. Then she is still. Her hand is beginning to get cold. Peter silently kisses her forehead.

PETER

I love you so much, Peggy. Rest in God’s eternal peace. No more pain now.

FADE TO BLACK:

INT. JESUIT’S OFFICE – DAY - 1 MONTH LATER

ROMAN

So, I’ve heard…I’m so sorry for your loss, my son.

Peter gives him a small smile. He sits across from Roman. His face carries the weight of grief.

There’s a long comfortable silence.

PETER

After Peggy died, everything changed. I couldn’t function properly.

ROMAN

It’s alright, my son. Grief really changes us, but it doesn’t mean life will stop. Life goes on, my son. Live for Peggy. You still have your family. You still have a purpose.

Peter nods.

PETER

It’s time to continue our journey. Slowly but surely.

INT. RECTORY – DAY

Another day comes and Peter is welcomed by Roman in his rectory with a warm smile. A copy of the Roman Catholic Catechism lies open on the table.

PETER

I can’t accept that the Catechism is the Word of God. Some of its positions don’t make sense to me.

He flips through pages.

PETER (CONT’D)

Pre-marital sex, contraception, homosexuality…

ROMAN

Then let’s examine pre-marital sex. The Catechism reflects Pope Paul II’s argument that God gave us sex to enable us to physically express the committed love that married couples offer each other.

PETER

But it seems to me that commitment can exist without the sacrament itself – that marriage is an enabler, rather than a prerequisite of committed love.

ROMAN

But is it not true that marriage is a formalization of that commitment? How else can couples be sure of each other’s commitment?

PETER

But is it not equally true that divorce makes the commitment of married couples undependable? Marriage does not guarantee committed love. Only God and the couple, married or not, can be sure of that commitment.

Roman tentatively nods, pensively.

ROMAN

I see where you’re going here, Peter. Non-married couples are as capable of committed love as are married couples. You’re saying that, rather than pre-marital sex being a sin, it is uncommitted pleasure-seeking sex that is a sin. It’s a very strong argument.

PETER

It seems to me that the Catechism’s position on pre-marital sex is a misinterpretation of God’s Word, like the misinterpretations we discovered in the Bible. Both sets of authors are fallible humans doing their best to correctly interpret God’s Word.

Roman breaks out with a smile.

ROMAN

So, your position is that pre-marital sex is not necessarily sinful?

PETER

Precisely!

ROMAN

You may be right, Peter. The Church claims that the Catechism is its best interpretation of the Word, but that individual Roman Catholics can conscientiously question its teachings. God reveals His Word by putting it directly into our minds. Our conscience is our interpretation of His Word. Shall we take a break for lunch Peter?

Peter nods and Roman begins to lay out a small lunch on the table between them.

INT. RECTORY - EARLY AFTERNOON

Peter helps Roman clear the table and turns to another topic.

PETER

How about the “sin” of contraception?

Peter uses his fingers to make the quote sign as he says “sin”.

ROMAN

The Catechism’s position is that using contraception is a rejection of God’s

gift of procreation and thus goes against God’s will.

PETER

Is it God’s will that we procreate every time we use God’s gift of the sexual act to physically express our committed love of one another?

ROMAN

The Catechism teaches that we procreate responsibly by our disciplined abstinence.

PETER

But is practicing abstinence not also a rejection of God’s gift of the sexual act to physically express our committed love for one another?

ROMAN

Granted, but contraception enables those who commit the sin of uncommitted, pleasure-seeking sex from unwanted pregnancy.

PETER

So could we agree that it is the sinful use of contraception rather than contraception itself that is the sin.

Roman quietly smiles.

ROMAN

You make a strong argument, Peter.

PETER

Then the Catechism’s teaching that contraception is a sin is another misinterpretation of God’s will. The sin is in the use we make of contraception, rather than in contraception itself.

ROMAN

You’ve just articulated an important clarification, Peter. Let’s take a break and get a little fresh air.

INT. RECTORY – LATE AFTERNOON

Refreshed, Roman and Peter return to their seats facing each other. Peter searches Roman’s face to see if he remains open to questioning.

PETER

The Catechism says that homosexuality is a sin.

Roman sits back in his chair with an amused expression.

ROMAN

Peter, you sure know how to bring up difficult teachings! It’s a good

thing the Church remains accepting of conscientious questioning!

Roman opens the Bible, turns to Mark 10: 6-9 and reads aloud.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

“From the beginning of creation, God made them male and female. Therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife and they shall become one flesh. So, they are no longer two but one flesh. What God has joined together, let not man separate.” So, Christ’s teaching applied to a man and a woman rather than to a same-sex couple.

PETER

Granted, but Christ did not explicitly exclude same-sex couples from His teaching. Can I tell you a short story, Roman?

Roman leans forward expectantly and nods.

PETER (CONT’D)

At one point during my late childhood, my mother told me that all of us are part male and part female. Most of us are predominantly one or the other, so we never, or rarely see others’ less dominant side. God made homosexuals’ sexuality just as He made all of ours. They have no control over their sexuality. It is a God-given gift rather than their choice.

Because that continues to make sense to me, I conclude that, if Jesus had chosen to include homosexuals in His teaching, He might have taught…

“From the beginning of creation, God made them male and female. Therefore, a person shall leave his or her father and mother and hold fast to his or her partner and they shall become one flesh. So, they are no longer two but one flesh. What God has joined together, let not man separate.”

The teaching would demand that same-sex couples must be as committed to their love for one another as are heterosexuals.

Roman’s expression shows he finds this thinking troubling.

ROMAN

But the Catechism’s teaching is that a homosexual union is sinful because it can’t produce the fruits of procreation which is God’s will.

PETER

However, we have seen countless examples of the fruits of same-sex couples in their adoption and parenting of children (much as Joseph adopted Jesus). I conclude the Catechism’s position on homosexuality is a misinterpretation of God’s Word. The misinterpretation is that homosexuality is a choice and that homosexual

relations are abnormal and unfruitful. Rather than homosexuality being a sin, just as for heterosexuals, sin exists only when same-sex couples use their sexuality for selfish pleasure-seeking uncommitted sex.

Roman crosses arms and sits forward in his chair.

ROMAN

I’m becoming increasingly uncomfortable with your thinking here, Peter. However, I whole-heartedly respect your right to conscientiously question the Roman Catholic Catechism’s teachings. You can be a good Catholic without accepting every teaching in the Catechism. If you’re correct in your thinking, the Holy Spirit will persevere in revealing God’s Word until its Church’s fallible human leadership correctly interprets it.

Peter sighs with relief.

PETER

But the issue is bigger than that, Roman. The Church is turning many people away by preaching that its teachings, on topics like these we’ve discussed, are absolute truth. Clearly the Catechism cannot surrender to popular demand, or it wouldn’t be the Word of God. However, it could preach that its teachings are its best interpretation of the Holy Spirit’s revelation and make it clear that everyone can be a good Catholic while conscientiously questioning and setting aside the Church’s teachings they cannot accept.

ROMAN

(smiles indulgently)

OK, Peter, I’ll take that up with the Pope as soon as we conclude our weekly meetings!

Peter ignores Roman’s sarcasm and looks at Roman imploringly.

PETER

Seriously, Roman, if the Church continues to drive people away by insisting these teachings are the Word of God, it will be denying those people the benefit of its over 2000 years of discernment of the Word of God.

Roman nods thoughtfully.

ROMAN

Well, Peter, that’s a big challenge. The Church is slow to change. However, let’s not lose hope. It has made many significant changes over the past 2000 years. I’ll pray for that to continue.

PETER

And I’ll accept that the Roman Catholic Catechism is unquestionably the Word of God except for the teachings that it misinterprets.

ROMAN

So, shall we summarize?

Roman holds up a closed hand.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

(raises his index finger)

(raises his middle finger)

(raises his ring finger)

Peter leans forward.

PETER

Fallible human leaders like the ones who wrote the Bible!

Roman smiles.

ROMAN

Exactly.

Once again, Roman holds up his hand and raises a finger for each point.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

Peter closes the RC Catechism book slowly.

PETER

It seems to me we all need to study the parts of the Bible and the Catechism that apply to us, to better understand God and His Word.

Roman gives Peter a high five.

ROMAN

You’ve come a long way from rejecting and ignoring the Catechism, Peter.

PETER

What do you suggest we tackle when we meet next week, Roman?

ROMAN

We already established Jesus is God, based on sound reasoning. Might we next pursue what we should do about it?

Peter nods agreement but gives Roman a questioning look as he picks up his copy of the Catechism.

ROMAN

We’re on a roll, Peter!

INT. JESUIT’S OFFICE – DAY – 1 WEEK LATER

Peter finds Roman seated in his office in the rectory, enters, and says with a smile.

PETER

We’ve got to stop meeting like this.

ROMAN

(grinning)

Au contraire, my friend. We need to keep meeting like this!

PETER

Haven’t we covered almost all the bases?

ROMAN

Well, we’ll see, won’t we? We’ve already established that Jesus is God based on sound reasoning. We’ve also established that our purpose in life is to love God and all His children as selflessly and unconditionally as we are able. Might we next explore what Jesus says we should do about it?

Peter leans forward with a puzzled look on his face.

PETER

Where does Jesus explore what we should do about our purpose?

ROMAN

Well, He doesn’t explore. He teaches so we can do the exploring.

Peter’s expression of puzzlement changes to one of understanding.

PETER

Might the Greatest Commandment be His teaching on life’s purpose?

ROMAN

What does the Greatest Commandment demand of us?

PETER

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your mind, all your strength, and all your soul and your neighbour as yourself.”

As Peter is talking, Roman brings the Bible passage up on his notebook. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

ROMAN

How consistent is that with what your reasoning established?

PETER

Well, “all your strength” is consistent with “as you are able”. Jesus taught that your neighbour includes everyone which is consistent with “all His children”.

Peter’s excitement shows in his “Aha” expression.

PETER (CONT’D)

Roman, I’ll be damned if they’re not saying the same thing!

Roman breaks out into a big smile.

ROMAN

Agreed! You’ve escaped damnation once again, Peter! Shall we explore what Jesus meant by all those all’s?

PETER

Sure. What did He mean by all your heart?

ROMAN

Did you love Peggy with all your heart?

Peter’s face shows a sad, but dreamy expression.

PETER

Absolutely! And I still do.

Roman moves to his whiteboard and uses a sharpie to write each numbered phrase (below) as Peter articulates each numbered sentence. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER (CONT’D)

Firstly, I chose Peggy.(1) I chose her initially because I was deeply attracted to her.(2) As I got to know her, my choice was continuously reaffirmed because I respected her values and trusted her.(3) Secondly, I gave her as much of my time as I could,(4) which developed an intimacy with her.(5) Thirdly, I put what she wanted ahead of what I wanted.(6) Fourthly, I wanted to give her everything I could. I was more fulfilled in giving to her than in getting from her.(7) Fifthly, I put my love for her above all the other loves in my life.(8) As well, I got better at more frequently telling her how much I loved her and how much she meant to me.(9) Finally, I spent my life working at my love for her. My love was an act of will(10) driven by the intensity of my heartfelt love of her.

ROMAN

Sounds like what Christ mean by all your heart. Could you love God the way you loved Peggy?

Roman places a checkmark on each numbered item on the whiteboard as he articulates each numbered question. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

ROMAN (CONT’D)

Could you choose(1) to love God and deepen your attraction to God by increasing your awareness of all He has given to you, all He has done for you and all He has created around you?(2) Could you trust God and put His values before yours?(3) Could you make time every day for God and exclude from your attention what distracts you from Him?(4) Could you do your best to develop an intimacy with God by “talking” with (that is directing your mind towards) God about everything that is important in your life and by “listening” to God (that is focusing your attention on what He is putting directly into your mind)?(5) Could you put God’s will before your will?(6) Could you offer your all to God including everything you accomplish, everything you acquire and everything with which you are blessed?(7) Could you love God more than anyone else in your life?(8) Could you profess your love for God at least daily, thanking Him for His unconditional love of you?(9) Finally, could you daily renew the act of will to do all these things to the best of your ability?(10)

Peter looks at the list for a few moments before replying.

PETER

I thought it was enough to go to church regularly and pray for what you think you need.

ROMAN

You’re not alone, Peter. That’s what most people think. But Christ is demanding a much deeper love.

PETER

I’m not sure I could love God as much as Christ demands.

ROMAN

Did you try to love Peggy as much as you could?

PETER

Yes, but I’m ashamed to say that, at times, I didn’t act like I loved her.

ROMAN

Peter, Christ knows that, at times, you won’t act like you love God. He’s simply demanding that you do your best to love God as you did your best to love Peggy.

Peter looks relieved and smiles.

PETER

I can do that!

ROMAN

So, let’s look at the other all’s in our next meeting. Would you be open to meeting at the Pig and Whistle?

PETER

Is the Pope Catholic?

Roman smiles and rests his arm on Peter’s shoulder.

INT. THE PIG AND WHISTLE – MID-AFTERNOON – 1 WEEK LATER

The pub is quiet as they enter and pick a corner table.

PETER

This is nice. We have almost all the place to ourselves!

ROMAN

Just what we need to explore the meaning of all your mind.

PETER

Lead on, Explorer-in-Chief!

Roman shakes his head and smiles.

ROMAN

The floor is yours, my friend. What do you think all your mind means?

Peter takes a moment to gather his thoughts.

PETER

Might it not be what we’ve been doing together these past weeks?

ROMAN

Expand, my sage.

Peter pauses as he considers his answer.

PETER

I’ve worked my mind more than I’ve ever done before! Before we met, I had failed to pursue my many questions about my faith. Since, with your help, I’ve pursued many of my questions until I arrived at an acceptable answer. Might that not be an aspect of loving God with all my mind?

ROMAN

Absolutely, Peter. Whenever you question your faith, you are loving God with your mind.

PETER

As well, before we met, I ignored the Bible and the Roman Catholic Catechism. Having now established they are both the Word of God, despite a few misinterpretations, I plan to fully

pursue both to learn more about God. Studying God is loving him with all my mind.

ROMAN

Bingo!

PETER

Before we met, I had rigorously pursued philosophical reasoning and the writings of atheists and apologists. Learning how to philosophically reason,

applying it and studying writings is a big part of loving God with all my mind.

One more aspect. I now set aside time each day to reflect on what I experienced. Experiences include readings and homilies at Mass, conversations, world news and so on. I’ve concluded all these experiences are gifts of God, and I need to reflect on them to determine if they raise new questions or reinforce and strengthen what I know. Putting this time aside is loving God with all my mind.

Roman looks admirably at Peter and quietly applauds.

ROMAN

I’d say you nailed it, Peter. Loving God with all one’s mind requires perseverance in questioning, in pursuing answers, in study and in daily reflection. Doing that is clearly loving God with all your mind.

Peter acknowledges the praise and changes the subject.

PETER

I don’t get what all your strength means.

ROMAN

Might the first aspect be discerning and applying all your gifts from God? God has given each of us differing degrees of differing gifts. Some of us are good listeners, some excel in

perception, some are more logical and imaginative, some are more empathetic, some excel in will power and so on. Rather than taking these gifts for granted, we need to fully apply our stronger gifts and continually develop our weaker ones. When we aggressively develop and apply all the gifts God gave us, we are loving God with all our strength.

Peter nods and waits for the next shoe to drop.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

A second aspect is to use these gifts at every opportunity. If I am a good listener, I need to devote all the time necessary to fully explore what matters to others. If I excel in observation, I need to be alert to how body language communicates. If I am more logical and imaginative than others, I need to respectfully share my thinking. If I excel in empathy, I need to proactively reach out. If I excel in will power, I need to apply that will power for the benefit of others. When I put my all into doing these things for all of God’s children at every opportunity, I am loving God with all my strength.

Peter raised his hand to interject.

PETER

But how do we know when we have reached the limit of our strength?

ROMAN

How does a fitness coach know?

PETER

“One more rep!” When they see that the person they’re coaching can do no more, the coach knows they are using all their strength.

Peter claps his hands.

PETER (CONT’D)

Aha! I’m my own fitness coach when I discipline myself to continually do a bit more today than I did yesterday for each aspect of my love for God. When I find I can no longer do more than I did yesterday, I know I’ve used all my strength.

ROMAN

Why do we complacently conclude we are good? Why do we not strive to become better? Why do we not continue striving until we become as good as we can be?

PETER

Roman, I have to admit, all my soul puzzles me.

Roman chuckles.

ROMAN

Don’t sweat it, Peter. We have our hands full loving God with all our heart, mind, and strength.

PETER

That Jesus is quite the task master, Roman! Reasoning established that life’s purpose is to love God and all His children as selflessly and unconditionally as we are able. Jesus is helping us understand how demanding “as we are able” is.

ROMAN

And this doesn’t include the second half of the Greatest Commandment. Does that not mean we have some more work to do, Peter?

PETER

Well, loving your neighbor “as well as one is able” must be a lot easier.

ROMAN

Let’s pursue that next week. But for now, I’m hungry. Will you join me in a pitcher of ale and a plate of bangers and mash?

Roman raises his hand to catch the server’s attention.

CUT TO:

As the server clears the table and presents the bill, Roman slides a book entitled Not Guilty – A Defence of the Bottom Dog over to Peter. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

ROMAN

Peter, I’d like you to read this before our next meeting.

Peter stares at the book.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

It may help us explore the second half of the Greatest Commandment.

Peter picks up the book, intrigued.

PETER

The journey continues.

INT. RECTORY - MORNING – THE FOLLOWING WEEK

Another week passes by. Roman and Peter continue their journey.

PETER

I’ve been thinking about the second half of the Greatest Commandment. “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Roman nods.

PETER (CONT’D)

But who exactly is my neighbor? Does Jesus mean everyone? Does He mean those who don’t appeal to us, those we dislike, even those we feel we’re right to dislike, or even hate?

ROMAN

Who do you feel we’re right to dislike, or even hate, Peter?

PETER

You know – abusers, predators, liars, manipulators, sadists, rapists, pedophiles, murderers, terrorists, and despotic dictators, to name a few! Surely Jesus is not demanding that we love them. Right?

Roman slides Not Guilty – A Defence of the Bottom Dog towards Peter. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

ROMAN

What did you make of Blatchford’s writings, Peter?

PETER

Blatchford argues something radical. He says people are the product of their heredity and their environment, neither of which they choose.

The Jesuit nods slightly, agreeing.

PETER (CONT’D)

If that’s true, people can’t really be blamed for what they become and what they do.

Peter sits back, absorbing this idea.

PETER (CONT’D)

Those I dislike and hate are victims of the circumstances that formed them.

ROMAN

True, but how can we love them?

PETER

I think Peggy had the answer. When our kids came home from school, saying they hated little Billie, she would tell them, “It’s wrong to hate little Billie, but it’s right to hate the bad things little Billie does.” She was saying transfer your dislike and hate from the person to what they do.

ROMAN

But, of course, society must protect itself from criminals by incarcerating them. How can we love those we condemn to prison?

PETER

Reach out to them. Pray for them. Take every opportunity to help them rehabilitate. Rise above the temptation to seek revenge and condemn them. No one is unable to do these things. So, to love them as much as we are able, we must do these things to obey the Greatest Commandment.

ROMAN

So, we must conclude loving our neighbor really does include everyone, even those who are hardest to love.

PETER

Jesus gives us the Greatest Commandment to teach us how demanding it is to love both God and all His children as selflessly and unconditionally as we are able. Since Jesus is God, His Greatest Commandment is God’s will.

ROMAN

Jesus adds more urgency about achieving God’s will in the Lord’s Prayer.

Peter’s face takes on a puzzled expression.

PETER

How so?

ROMAN

The phrase, “Thy will be done as it is in heaven.” Did you ever notice that He didn’t add, “by some of the people some of the time”? It’s clear everyone in heaven does God’s will.

PETER

So, we can’t reach heaven until we succeed in doing God’s will as well as we are able. That makes it pretty urgent to start doing God’s will as well as we are able.

Roman nods.

ROMAN

Seems like it!

PETER

You know what worries me, Roman? God Incarnate taught that He would build His church. Does that not mean those who don’t practice Christianity are not doing God’s will?

ROMAN

Did Christ ever once teach that it is God’s will that we practice religion?

PETER

No, but why else would He have built His church if it were not God’s will that we practice religion?

ROMAN

Might He have built it as a gift to us to help us do God’s will? Might His gift be an enabler rather than a prerequisite of accomplishing God’s will? If it were a prerequisite, would Christ not have made that obligation clear?

PETER

So like any gift, we should fully discern whether it is useful to us, rather than simply setting it aside.

ROMAN

Correct! We have established that God’s will is that we love Him and all His children to the best of our ability.

We need to ask ourselves if we can be absolutely sure that we can do our very best without enabling ourselves of God’s gift.

PETER

So, we can’t complacently assume we don’t need the church. We need to do our best to determine if and how it can help us do God’s will.

ROMAN

Yes. As well, before concluding that we don’t need religion, we need to ask ourselves why God would gift us anything He knows won’t help us and that we don’t need.

PETER

Heavy thinking for us all, Roman!

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE – HOME OFFICE – A WEEK LATER

Roman steps into Peter’s home office and stops dead! He expected to find Peter on his notebook, but now Roman sees these bold letters on his whiteboard. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

ROMAN

What in the world is this, Peter?

PETER

Just some musings, Roman. Something hit me after our last meeting. Jesus expressed the Greatest Commandment in just a few words, and yet it demands so much of us. I realized that if one short teaching reveals this much, how much more might all His teachings in the four gospels be teaching us. Maybe we should examine all of Jesus’ sayings as thoroughly as we did the Greatest Commandment.

Roman, curious, raises an eyebrow.

ROMAN

How would you do that, Peter? I’m sure you know Jesus made well over 400 teachings which are scattered all over all four of the gospels.

Peter smiles proudly.

PETER

437, to be exact, Roman!

ROMAN

How could you possibly know that, Peter?

Roman looks on incredulously as Peter gets up and walks over to the whiteboard. He uses a sharpie to place a check mark beside EXTRACT.

PETER

Not too difficult when you extract them into a spreadsheet, Roman! {SHOW ON SCREEN}

Peter walks back to his notebook and turns it toward Roman. He brings up an Excel worksheet: 1.Sort by Reference {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER (CONT’D)

As you can see, I created a worksheet in Excel and, starting with the Gospel of John, I typed in the first teaching he reported in John 1: 38-42 in row 2 of the spreadsheet. Immediately Excel calculated the number of words (36) in that first teaching. I typed in each succeeding teaching in the Gospel of John on its own row.

Peter scrolls down quickly to Row 78.

PETER (CONT’D)

When I finished all the teachings in John, I started with Luke, then Mark and, finally, Matthew. What you’re looking at is all 437 of Jesus’ teachings each with its number of words calculated by Excel.

ROMAN

That’s a phenomenal amount of work, Peter!

Peter chuckles.

PETER

We’re just getting started, my friend. Fasten your seatbelt.

Peter gets up and returns to the whiteboard. Using the sharpie he puts a large check mark beside TOPICALIZE.

PETER (CONT’D)

Next, I assigned a topic to every quotation – things like discipleship, faith, miracles, salvation, commandments and so on.

Peter walks back to the notebook and points the monitor towards Roman. He flips to WORKSHEET 2:Sort by Reference w Topic. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER (CONT’D)

Roman, as you can see, I assigned the first two teachings the topic Jesus calls disciples and the next two, good shepherd. As you scroll down, you can see that I added a topic name to all of

Jesus’ 437 teachings.

ROMAN

I can see where you’re going with this, Peter. Excel can instantly sort Jesus’ teachings by topic. Teachings that are scattered in the Bible can be seen, assembled by topic, where they expand on and reinforce each other. This is groundbreaking, Peter. It enables us to see in one place all that Jesus taught on each topic He addressed.

PETER

Perceptive, Roman! Can you see what else this sort accomplishes for us?

ROMAN

There’s more?

Peter is walking back to the whiteboard as Roman is talking.

He picks up the sharpie and places a check mark beside SIZE TOPICS.

PETER

A lot more, Roman. Once the teachings are sorted by topic, Excel can instantly count the number of teachings and their composite size for each topic.

ROMAN

You’re losing me, Peter. Can’t we slow down a little? What’s the value of calculating the number of teachings and their composite size for each topic.

PETER

Isn’t it obvious, Roman? Wouldn’t you agree that this can rank the topics by importance. Wouldn’t the more often Jesus addressed a topic, and how much

he said about it, indicate how important Jesus felt that topic was to His overall message?

ROMAN

OK, I guess, in theory. But how does it work in practice?

Peter is already walking back to his desk where he keys something into the notebook. The monitor switches to WORKSHEET 3:Sort by Topic. {SHOW ON SCREEN} Roman sits down beside Peter.

PETER

Let’s begin by sizing passion and death. As you can see, Excel has already calculated the number of words in each teaching. For example, Excel calculated that the first teaching, from Mark 9: 2-13, has 121 words.

ROMAN

Yes, I see that, and I remember Excel calculating the number of words in each teaching earlier.

Peter scrolls down slowly and stops at row 42.

PETER

Good! Now, if we scroll down to the last passion and death teaching, we see that it is in row 42. Since the first passion and death teaching is in row 2, we know that the total number of passion and death teachings is 41 (42-1). Meanwhile, Excel calculates the sum of the word counts in rows 2-42 as 2950.

Peter scrolls down further and stops at row 71.

PETER (CONT’D)

As we scroll down further, we see that, similarly, the first discipleship teaching is in row 43 and the last is in row 71. Thus, we calculate the number of teachings as 29 (71-42) and Excel calculates the sum of the word counts in rows 43-71 as 2981.

PETER (CONT’D)

I continued this process for all 57 topics I’d assigned to each of the 437 teachings. From this, I created a Topic

worksheet with one row for each topic, listing it’s Word count (how much Jesus said on each topic) and its Quote count (how often He addressed each topic). Take a gander, Peter!

Peter flips to WORKSHEET 4.Summary.

ROMAN takes a few minutes to study the Excel worksheet while Peter is moving back to the whiteboard where he picks up the sharpie and places a check mark beside RANK TOPICS.

Without looking up, Roman suddenly cries, “Eureka!”

ROMAN

I see where you are going, Peter. You could sort it by the number or words to create a words ranking, and by the number of quotes to produce a quotes ranking.

As Peter walks back to the notebook, he looks slyly at Roman.

PETER

You’re a clever devil, Roman. Would you like to look at the finished product?

Peter flips to WORKSHEET 5.Words Rank. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER (CONT’D)

Voila! The Words Rank. As you suggested, it is produced by a simple sort of the # Words column in descending sequence, ranking how much Jesus taught about each topic from most to least.

Peter pauses so Roman can digest this and then flips to WORKSHEET 6.Quotes Rank. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER (CONT’D)

Voila, encore! The Quotes Rank is an equally simple sort of the # Quotes column in descending sequence, ranking how often Jesus taught about each topic from most often to least often.

ROMAN

Very easy to follow and very powerful, Peter. But I notice both worksheets have a Rank and a Rank – Sum column.

Once again, Peter gives Roman time to digest this and then flips to WORKSHEET 7 Topic Rank. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER

Perceptive of you, Roman! Those two columns produce the coup de grace! Adding the Words Rank and the Quotes Rank produces a Rank - Sum, which sorted from lowest to highest gives us a Topic Rank based on both how much Jesus said on each topic and how often he addressed each topic.

Roman leans in, excitedly.

ROMAN

So if we start our study with the first-ranked topic, we’re starting with the topic that Jesus felt was the most important of all His teachings. Still, 40,908 words in 437 teachings is a pretty overwhelming undertaking.

Peter gets up and returns to the whiteboard where he picks up the sharpie and places a check mark beside GROUP TOPICS.

PETER

I’ve been thinking about that, Roman. I think we may be able to tackle Jesus’ teachings one third at a time.

Peter flips to WORKSHEET 8.Cumulatives. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER (CONT’D)

For example, adding Passion and Death’s counts to those of Discipleship, we see that Jesus devoted 5931 words and 70 teachings to these two topics.

ROMAN

I see where you’re going Peter. Adding Authority’s counts to the first two topics, we see that Jesus devoted 8950 words and 96 teachings to the three topics.

Peter scrolls down quickly to the bottom of the worksheet.

PETER (CONT’D)

Correct, Roman, and continuing this process for all 57 topics, we see that Jesus used 40908 words and 437 teachings to deliver His message to us.

ROMAN

Aha. Knowing the total numbers of words and teachings, we can calculate the percentage of Jesus total teachings that each group of topics delivers.

Peter scrolls back to the top of the worksheet as shown in WORKSHEET 9.Cumulatives %s. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER

Precisely, Roman. And that was my final step. As you can see on the top row, the topic Passion and Death delivers 7.2% of his total number of words and 9.4% of his total number of teachings.

ROMAN

And on the group made up of the first two topics, we see that that group delivers 14.5% of his total number of words and 16.0% of his total number of teachings.

PETER

And we can do the same for the first three topics, the first four topics and continue right down to the 57th topic! And, Roman, look what this tells us.

Peter flips to WORKSHEET 10.%s Highlighted. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER (CONT’D)

The top five topics alone contain more than one-third of Jesus’ teachings and the top fourteen topics contain over two-thirds of all Jesus’ teachings.

Roman is impressed.

ROMAN

This means we can limit our initial study to just 14 of the 57 topics.

Peter closes the notebook slowly.

PETER

Which means something important.

Roman waits patiently.

PETER (CONT’D)

If we study the sayings in each topic together, we can determine the overall message Jesus delivers on that topic.

ROMAN

(nodding)

And if we do that for all fourteen most-important topics, we should be able to synthesize them…

PETER

…into most of Jesus’ overall message to us.

Roman stands.

ROMAN

But I want to see how it actually works. Next week?

Peter nods excitedly.

PETER

Can’t wait!

The journey of study of Jesus’ teachings has begun.

CUT TO:

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE - HOME OFFICE – A WEEK LATER

Peter sits at his notebook, and beside him is Roman. On the monitor is WORKSHEET 3.Sort by Topic. {SHOW ON SCREEN} Peter turns to face Roman.

PETER

So which topic would you like to study first, Roman?

ROMAN

Let’s try Kingdom of God.

Peter hands the keyboard to Roman.

PETER

Why don’t you drive, Roman? Scroll down to Kingdom of God.

Roman studies the monitor with a hesitant expression. He sees the Topic column on the left side of the worksheet and scrolls down, slowly at first, gradually picking up the pace until Kingdom of God suddenly appears in the Topic column in row (175).

He scrolls down slowly again, line by line, until he reaches the last Kingdom of God row (191).

ROMAN

I see there are 17 (191-174) teachings, Peter. As I study each one could you jot down its key words?

Peter walks to the white board erases what was there, and picks up the sharpie. In the background, Roman scrolls down line by line, calling out phrases which Peter writes on the whiteboard one by one. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

ROMAN turns to look at the whiteboard, picks up his journal, turns to a new page and, referring frequently to the whiteboard, writes…

Eternal life with God is far beyond what I can imagine and to realize it, I must respond to His invitation and adequately prepare for it in order to be judged ready to attain it. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

He shows Peter his journal.

ROMAN

Peter, from the seventeen teachings, this is what I conclude is Jesus’ overall message about the Kingdom of God.

PETER

Congratulations, Roman. That seems to me to capture the main message that Jesus is teaching. Are you ready for some homework? Can you repeat the same process for the other thirteen most-important topics?

Roman sighs heavily.

ROMAN

You’re a hard taskmaster, Peter. But I did say I wanted to try out the whole process. This is going to take me a considerable amount of time. Can I borrow your notebook?

I’ll call you to set up our next meeting when I can see the light at the end of the tunnel!

PETER

I’ll pray that God gives you the strength needed to succeed, Roman.

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE – BEDROOM – LATE ONE NIGHT

The telephone has been ringing and Peter finally sleepily picks it up.

PETER

Hello? Who is this please?

ROMAN

Your favorite Jesuit, Peter. Mission accomplished! Are you free first thing tomorrow morning?

Peter laughs.

PETER

I will be, if I can get back to sleep now!

INT. PETER’S RESIDENCE - OFFICE – BRIGHT AND EARLY

Roman bursts into Peter’s office and returns Peter’s notebook. He opens his journal and flips past a lot of notes until he reaches a summary page. {SHOW THE JOURNAL’S SUMMARY PAGE BELOW ON THE SCREEN}

ROMAN

Peter, here is what I concluded to be the overall messages of each of the 14 most-important topics.

PETER

Excellent. You’ve been a very busy bee!

ROMAN

When I sequenced the 14 messages, they produced four paragraphs which, for me, disclose Jesus’ overall message for us.

SHOW THE JOURNAL’S SUMMARY PAGE (BELOW) ON THE SCREEN:

Roman reads the summary page to Peter.

ROMAN

Jesus was a man. Jesus was God Incarnate.

Eternal life with God is far beyond what I can imagine and to realize it, I must respond to His invitation and adequately prepare for it. I need to discern what, of what I read and hear, is consistent with what I am taught by Jesus. Professing a love for Jesus is not enough. I must do what He insists upon.

I must love my enemies and use my gifts to help those who cannot repay me. I must increase my righteousness and avoid judgement of others. I must share the gifts of which I am God’s steward, not merely more than others do, but as much as I am able.

I must proactively seek to understand the Word of God and commit to correct each failure to act on it. I must grow my faith in prayers for God’s help in accomplishing whatever Jesus demands of me. I reject Jesus whenever I put my will ahead of God’s will. I will have no excuse. I must love Jesus more than anyone. I am fully accountable. I will be judged at the moment of my death as one of the few sheep or the many goats. Jesus commands that we love one another as He has loved and that we follow The Golden Rule.

PETER

Pretty impressive, Roman! It definitely expands on what the Greatest Commandment teaches. And since Jesus was God Incarnate, this expansion is part of God’s will. We must master what this overall message from Jesus demands of us as well as we are able, to be judged ready to enter heaven for an eternal life with God.

Based on what it took you to accomplish this, Roman, is it something anyone can master?

ROMAN

Definitely! The process is demanding but simple to follow. It requires considerable time and effort, but when supported by your Excel workbook, it can be accomplished in less than one week. But how is one able to do it who doesn’t have your Excel workbook?

Peter lays a book entitled,

on the table between them. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER

Good question, Roman. It just so happens that while you were busy last week, I called on a friend and traded a

copy of my Excel workbook for a copy of

his book,

He promised to include an appendix entitled, THE SAYINGS OF JESUS, in the next edition of his book. That appendix will include the full content of my Excel workbook, and examples of how to use it the same way you did. This third edition will be available on Amazon in late 202X.

Roman breaks out with a big smile.

ROMAN

Using his book’s appendix, THE SAYINGS OF JESUS, no one will be unable to use the process we walked through together, to enrich their understanding of life’s purpose. But Peter, that’s good for everyone except you! Your friend will have eaten your lunch!

PETER

That’s OK, Roman. I will be rewarded by the number of people enabled rather than by being the enabler!

ROMAN

Helping others with humility. God would approve, Peter!

PETER

Something still plagues me, Roman. Based on the research we’ve shared I know what Jesus said. But none of our research has addressed what Jesus did. His miracles remain unsubstantiated for me.

Curious, Roman raises an eyebrow.

ROMAN

How so?

PETER

Because I assumed the universe was a closed system - nature operating only by its own laws. If that’s true, miracles would be impossible.

ROMAN

But then you came to know that God created that “system”, as you call it, and that God is omniscient and omnipotent. What would prevent God from intervening at times in the system He created?

PETER

Well, yes, He could but where is the reasoning that He did?

Roman reaches into his pocket to pull out a paperback. Miracles by C.S. Lewis. {SHOW ON THE SCREEN}

ROMAN

Here is some reasoning that

establishes for Lewis that Jesus’ miracles were real. Why not digest his reasoning and see if it works for you?

Peter picks up the book enthusiastically.

PETER

I’ll get right on it, Roman. Can we discuss my conclusions at a nice little bar I frequent called Fat Freddie’s say, in a week from now?

ROMAN

Sure, Peter. Why don’t you make a reservation and send me the details?

INT. FAT FREDDIE’S BAR – EVENING

It’s a lovely night and Fat Freddie’s is a lively neighborhood bar. Peter and Roman clink their glasses. They sit at a small round table.

ROMAN

(smiling skeptically)

If we manage to accomplish anything concrete in a place like this, it will be a miracle. No pun intended!

Peter places Miracles by C.S. Lewis on the table. {SHOW ON THE SCREEN}

Roman taps the book.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

So, what did you discover?

PETER

Lewis challenged my assumption.

ROMAN

How?

PETER

Similar to your position, He argued that if there is a Creator outside the system, then the Creator could act within it.

Peter opens the book.

PETER (CONT’D)

In that case, miracles wouldn’t be violations of nature. They would be interventions by the one who made nature.

ROMAN

Lewis also looked at the miracles of Jesus individually.

PETER

Right. He pointed out that they’re not random displays of power. In the case of the Miracles of Fertility, Turning Water into Wine, Miracles of Feeding, Calming Storms, and Healing the Sick - each reflects something nature already does every day but, in the miracle, is done instantly.

ROMAN

So, these miracles are like nature accelerated?

PETER

For another example, the Raising of Lazarus from the Dead is something God has already done, in creating all life from the inanimate.

They sit quietly for a moment. The noise of the bar envelops them.

PETER (CONT’D)

For the miracles that are not what God has always done, Lewis uses evidence and reasoning. For example, as The Case for Christ established, evidence for the Miracle of the Resurrection is substantial. As for the Miracle of the Ascension, because Christ’s body was never found on Earth, it must have gone away from Earth. Because, from our viewpoint, away means up, it must have ascended.

ROMAN

And after working through Lewis’ reasoning?

PETER

Of Lewis’ many arguments for the reality of Christ’s miracles, all are supported and none are refuted. Until new arguments, or flaws in these arguments are established, this alone substantiates my knowledge that Christ’s miracles were real.

ROMAN

Let me ask you something.

Peter nods, waiting.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

Do you believe in the Miracle of the Eucharist?

PETER

(smiling)

If I believed that the Eucharist was truly the body of Christ, as the Church says it is, then I’d be at Mass every day to receive it.

ROMAN

Then perhaps you should reconsider that possibility.

Peter raises an eyebrow.

PETER

You’re suggesting the Eucharist might actually be real?

Roman smiles gently.

ROMAN

I am suggesting you examine the question in the same way you examined all Christ’s miracles.

He lifts his drink.

ROMAN (CONT’D)

Let’s talk about it next time.

Peter nods and they clink glasses.

INT. RECTORY – EVENING – A WEEK LATER

Peter and Roman meet again in the rectory over a cup of coffee.

PETER

I’ve been thinking about your question about the Eucharist. I just can’t accept that the bread and wine actually become the Body and Blood of Jesus.

The Jesuit nods calmly.

ROMAN

What are your reasons?

Peter walks to the whiteboard and, using only the top half of the whiteboard, writes each reason, under the title AGAINST, as he states it. {SHOW ON SCREEN}

PETER

First of all, I know of no process where something is changed into something completely different. For example, is alchemy real?

Secondly, I am unaware of any scientific test that proves its reality?

Lastly, might the Church’s teaching be simply a ploy to get people to come to Mass?

Roman acknowledges his position without agreeing.

PETER (CONT’D)

I then challenged each reason for my skepticism one at a time.

Peter writes each challenge, using the bottom half of the whiteboard, under the heading DISMISSAL.

On the first point, I came to the realization that our lack of knowledge that something exists is not proof it doesn’t.

Secondly, a scientific test is impossible because the composition of the body of Christ is unknowable. We know God Incarnate had our bodies’ characteristics, but we don’t know what other characteristics it had nor what characteristics his resurrected body has.

Thirdly, we can’t dismiss transubstantiation simply because of the unsubstantiated feeling that some church leaders might use others’ belief in it for their own purposes.

ROMAN

So, you’ve dismissed arguments against the position that transubstantiation is not real.

Have you moved on to arguments that it is real?

Peter smiles, knowing that was coming and he is ready for it.

PETER

I simply used common sense to come up with reasons why God would want the reality of the Eucharist. After all, what God wants, God gets.

ROMAN

Sound thinking. But what are your arguments?

Peter erases what is on the whiteboard and writes his reasons on it one by one.

PETER

Firstly, because we know God loves us, and can’t show Himself to us without taking away our free will to choose to love Him, it makes sense God would want us to be able to physically experience Him. Once God Incarnate left us, the only way He could come to us is invisibly.

Secondly, God would want His physical presence to be inside our bodies where it is as intimate as we experience when we feel ourselves inside each other when we kiss and make love. He needs to come inside us.

Thirdly, God would want us to experience Him in every cell of our bodies. When we ingest Him, our digestion system delivers Him to our circulatory system which carries Him through the totality of our beings.

Finally, we know the Eucharist is real because we know that what God wants, God gets!

Roman affectionately reaches out for Peter’s hand.

ROMAN

Congratulations, my son. You have

refuted the arguments against the

reality of the Eucharist and substantiated the arguments for its reality.

Does that not mean you know the Eucharist is real as well as you know anything?

PETER

Yes, and because I know I know it, I will no longer miss any opportunity to experience that intimacy with God. I will be attending Mass daily.

ROMAN

Starting tomorrow? Can I reach you in the next couple of weeks to share how it’s going?

Peter nods enthusiastically.

PETER

I’d love that. I’ll give you a call after a few days of my full participation in the Mass.

INT. ROMAN’S CHURCH SACRISTY – MID MORNING – A FEW DAYS LATER

Peter comes in as Roman is removing his liturgical vestments and hanging them up in a closet.

ROMAN

Saw you at Mass this morning, Peter, and remembered our meeting today. How has your week of daily masses been going?

PETER

A bit overwhelming, Roman, but in a good way! The Mass prepares me to take Jesus into my body. When I receive the Eucharist, I feel God’s presence inside. I am completely absorbed in God. I am mesmerized, enthralled and captivated by God. This feeling stays with me for most of most days. I’ve come from an occasional connection with God to what is almost a continual connection. I can’t, and don’t want to ignore God for more than a few minutes, or at most a few hours. I relate much of what I experience each day to the Word of God.

ROMAN

Peter, you’ve experienced your own personal miracle. It’s called a metanoia – a transformative change of heart – a spiritual conversion. Nobody can experience their own personal

miracle until they believe in miracles – a belief you’ve achieved. Can we celebrate your metanoia by attending Mass together this Sunday?

Peter nods enthusiastically with a dreamy expression on his face.

INT. A CATHEDRAL – SUNDAY MORNING

Sunlight streams through stained-glass windows. The vast cathedral is quiet as people enter and take their seats.

Peter looks around. The solemn beauty of the space is unfamiliar to him. Peter and Roman sit together in a first-row pew. As a choir finishes singing an entrance hymn, the presider mounts the sanctuary and greets the parishioners.

PRIEST

The Lord be with you.

CONGREGATION

And with your spirit.

PRIEST

Let us prepare for Mass by confessing our sins and asking for God’s forgiveness.

As Peter, the priest and the congregation pray for forgiveness, Peter enhances his experience by adding gestures to his prayer.

ALL

I confess to almighty God

(Peter raises his eyes to the ceiling)

and to you, my brothers and sisters,

(turns to briefly face the congregation)

that I have greatly sinned - in my thoughts,

(touches his brow)

and in my words,

(touches his lips)

in what I have done,

(taps his chest)

and in what I have failed to do,

(opens his arms in emptiness)

through my fault,

(taps his heart)

through my fault

(taps his heart)

through my most grievous fault;

(taps his heart)

therefore, I ask blessed Mary,

(turns to her statue)

all the Angels and Saints,

(raises his eyes to the ceiling)

and you, my brothers and sisters,

(turns to briefly face the congregation)

to pray for me to the Lord our God.

The first lector reads the first reading of the day; the choir sings the prayers of the faithful and the second lector reads the second reading.

PRIEST

The Lord be with you.

PEOPLE

And with your spirit.

PRIEST

A reading from the holy Gospel according to…

Peter, and all the people make small signs of the cross on their foreheads, on their lips and on their hearts.

PEOPLE

Glory to you, O Lord.

The priest reads the Gospel ending with – the Word of the Lord - and begins his homily.

CUT TO:

PRIEST

Let us profess our faith.

ALL

I believe in God the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried; he descended into hell; on the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty; from there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.

The priest comes forward to the altar and prays.

PRIEST (O.S.)

Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the bread we offer you: fruit of the earth and work of human hands, it will become for us the bread of life.

PETER (V.O.)

Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the lives we offer you, our soundness of body, our longevity, our health and our energy. Help us to use these attributes in pursuit of your purpose for our lives.

ALL

Blessed be God for ever.

PRIEST (O.S.)

Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the wine we offer you: fruit of the vine and work of human hands, it will become our spiritual drink.

PETER (V.O.)

Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the gifts we offer you, which we discern, enrich with your revelation and apply in pursuit of your purpose for our lives.

ALL

Blessed be God for ever.

PRIEST

Pray, brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God the almighty Father.

ALL

May the Lord accept the sacrifice at your hands,

(Peter raises his hands toward the altar.)

for the praise and glory of His name,

(Peter raises his arms to the ceiling.)

for our good

(Peter crosses his hands over his chest.)

and the good of all his holy Church.

PRIEST

The Lord be with you.

ALL

And with your spirit…

Peter points his hands toward the priest.

PRIEST

Lift up your hearts.

ALL

We lift them up to the Lord.

Peter raises his hands to the ceiling.

PRIEST

Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God.

ALL

It is right and just.

PRIEST

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, Holy Father, almighty and eternal God, through Christ our Lord. And so, with the company of Angels and Saints, we sing the hymn of your praise, as without end we acclaim:

ALL

Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

All kneel.

PRIEST

You are indeed Holy, O Lord, the fount of all holiness. Make holy, therefore, these gifts, we pray, by sending down your Spirit upon them like the dewfall, so that they may become for us the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.

PRIEST (O.S.)

At the time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his Passion, He took bread and, giving thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you, and eat of it, for this is my Body, which will be given up for you.”

PETER (V.O.)

(gazing at the host)

Thank you for the blessed gift (raises his hands to the altar) of your presence here with us, in physical form, so that as we take your physical presence into our bodies (touches his lips), we may become more aware (touches his forehead) of your spiritual omnipresence within us.

The priest raises the paten holding the wafer. Bells ring softly.

PRIEST

Behold the body of Christ

PETER

My Lord, my Saviour and my God. Thank you for the blessed gift of reason-based knowledge of your presence here in physical form.

The priest pours wine and water into the chalice.

PRIEST (O.S.)

In a similar way, when supper was ended, he took the chalice and, once more giving thanks, he gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you, and drink from it, for this is the chalice of my Blood, the Blood of the new and eternal covenant which will be poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.”

PETER (V.O.)

(gazing at the chalice)

And when I am careless with this gift, when I wander aimlessly and distractedly

(shakes his head back and forth)

through life, self-centered, self-indulgent and self-possessed,

(taps his chest three times)

thank you for calling me back to you as you come across my lips,

(touches his lips)

and into my body

(touches his chest)

so that your physical presence reminds me of your spiritual omnipresence.

The priest raises the chalice. Bells ring softly.

PRIEST

Behold the blood of Christ.

PETER

My Lord, my Saviour and my God. Thank you for the blessed gift of seeing you, touching you, tasting you and feeling you throughout my body. Never let me be separated from you.

PRIEST

The mystery of faith.

ALL

When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.

The priest raises the Body and Blood of Christ.

PRIEST

Through Him, and with Him and in Him, O God almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honour is yours, for ever and ever.

ALL

Amen.

All stand.

PRIEST

At the Saviour’s command and informed by divine teaching, we dare to say:

ALL

Our Father, who art in heaven

(Peter raises his arms to the ceiling.)

hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come

(Peter opens his arms to God.)

thy will be done on earth

(Peter looks from side to side.)

as it is in heaven.

(Peter looks up towards the ceiling.)

Give us this day our daily bread

(Peter holds out his hands, palms up.)

and forgive us our trespasses

(Peter taps his chest.)

as we forgive those who trespass against us and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

PRIEST

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant us peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

PEOPLE

For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever.

PRIEST

Lord Jesus Christ, who said to your Apostles: Peace I leave you, my peace I give you, look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church, and graciously grant her peace and unity in accordance with your will. Who live and reign for ever and ever.

ALL

Amen.

PRIEST

The peace of the Lord be with you always.

PEOPLE

And with your spirit.

PRIEST

Let us offer each other the sign of peace.

As the priests bring the consecrated hosts out of the tabernacle, all turn to each of those around them with their hands together in the sign of peace.

All kneel.

ALL

Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, grant us peace.

The priest raises the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.

PRIEST

Behold the Lamb of God, behold Him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.

ALL

Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

Row by row the congregation approaches the servers and receives the Body of Christ. When all have received, the priest locks the consecrated Body of Jesus in the tabernacle. The altar is cleared.

PRIEST

The Lord be with you.

PEOPLE

And with your spirit.

PRIEST

May almighty God bless you, the Father and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

All make the sign of the cross.

ALL

Amen.

PRIEST

Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.

ALL

Thanks be to God.

All sing the concluding hymn and file out of the church.

EXT. OUT ON THE CHURCH STEPS - CONTINUOUS

ROMAN

Peter, I admired how you added gestures to your personal prayers and blended them with those of the liturgy.

PETER

Thanks, Roman. Doing it increases my feeling of intimacy with God.

ROMAN

I’d like to feel that intimacy as well, Peter. Would you be kind enough to share your personal prayers with me?

Peter gives Roman a big smile.

PETER

I thought this would be the other way around, Roman – you sharing your prayers with me!

ROMAN

We all learn from each other, my son. Go in peace.

As Roman heads towards his car, Wayne runs, breathlessly, up to Peter.

WAYNE

Will miracles never cease! Peter, this is the last place I expected to find you!

PETER

You can find me here every morning, my dear friend.

WAYNE

I’m delighted, Peter. Come over for a drink and tell me everything.

PETER

I’d love to, Wayne. But, alternatively, would you consider inviting the friends who brought me to this point?

WAYNE

By all means, Peter. Let’s set a date when you’ve contacted them all.

INT. WAYNE’S RESIDENCE - OUTSIDE DECK

Noisy chatter, as Peter’s friends, with a glass of wine in their hands, renew acquaintances or get to know each other. Wayne clicks his glass and all is quiet.

WAYNE

I’d like to propose a toast to the Church’s newest, and most handsome convert!

All raise their glasses, and shout out, “To Peter!”

WAYNE (CONT’D)

Now, might I suggest that we spend a little time telling each other how each of us helped Peter arrive at this point?

Shouts of “Hear! Hear!”, “Sounds good!” and “Let’s do it!” abound.

WAYNE (CONT’D)

May I suggest that we tell our stories in the order in which they occurred? If so, I guess I should start, as I met Peter in our frosh year at McMaster University.

Shouts of “Go for it!”, “By all means!” and “Rant on!” abound.

WAYNE (CONT’D)

Peter and I were roommates in a two-bed room and each of us had a desk where we did our assignments. Regularly, after a couple of hours’ work, Peter would challenge me to give him a reason for some aspect of my faith. He would challenge it until he felt he had refuted it and would then ask me for a second reason. This pattern would continue well into the wee hours of the morning.

PETER

I must admit that, as a flaming atheist, I acted as if I genuinely wanted to learn, whereas my real intent was to prove myself to be right and Wayne to be wrong.

WAYNE

Peter may have felt that way, but it gradually became clear to me that he was struggling with his atheism. Much later, I met Peggy who shared her similar experience. Because Peter had fallen deeply in love with Peggy, his approach to her was more explorative than challenging! Even though neither of us could substantiate our Roman Catholicism to his satisfaction, Peter’s respect for both of us caused him to come to a life-changing conclusion. If he was right and we were wrong, none of us had anything to lose. But, if we were right and he was wrong, he was skating on pretty thin ice. Peggy and I had started the ball rolling.

CHRISTIAN

And that’s where I entered the

picture. Realizing Peggy and he could never marry if he could not accept Christianity, Peter decided to pursue

Roman Catholicism at the Catholic Information Centre where I was a seminarian mentor. Peter’s skepticism produced many objections to Roman Catholic dogma, which he found completely unsubstantiated. Our one-on-one personal mentoring sessions gradually overcame his objections. Although he failed to develop reasoning to substantiate Roman Catholicism, he gradually concluded that it was more likely than not that the God portrayed by Christianity did exist. This kept the ball rolling for quite some time.

NATHAN

Enter the devil! I also had met Peter at university where we had honed our atheism. We had shared our research into leading atheists like Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris and Daniel Dennett and built what we considered to be our own irrefutable arguments that no God exists. These held up for years until we reunited after Peter began to feel we might, indeed, be on thin ice. Over a few hours, we renewed the reasoning behind our fourteen arguments for atheism with Peter systematically refuting each of them. His arguments didn’t convince me, but they reinforced his conviction that it was more likely than not that the God portrayed by Christianity did exist. However, he realized that while he had refuted arguments that God does not exist, he had been unable to develop any reasoning to substantiate that He did exist. So, I guess you might say, I slowed the ball down, but it kept rolling.

CHRISTINE

When I reunited with Peter, I realized that, while he no longer accepted

arguments that no God exists, his skepticism plagued him. He needed sound reasoning which is my stock and trade. We got right down to work. I introduced him to deductive and inductive reasoning and then watched as his clever mind developed sound reasoning in support of four convictions. We were created by a being outside its creation. That creator loves us. That creator offers an eternal life of intimacy with it. That creator has established the purpose of our lives.

PETER

That changed everything for me. Reasoning had provided knowledge every bit as sound as the proof I had been seeking. I could no longer question the existence of God. I realized I had to devote the rest of my life to accomplishing the will of God. Because my four convictions mirrored Christian teaching, I had to stop referring to our creator as “it”. I had to refer to our creator as God. However, I still harbored my doubts about three Christian teachings. I could not accept that the Bible is the Word of God, that Jesus is the Son of God and that the Roman Catholic Catechism is the Word of God. Until I could establish reasoning that these three things were true, Christian teaching, that depended on them, was still subject to doubt. Still, the ball had picked up speed.

ROMAN

Peter attended one of my retreats in pursuit of his doubts. At its conclusion he asked if I would meet with him. This was the first of a series of meetings addressing his doubts. In each session, Peter would describe to me the thinking behind his

doubts and I would introduce him to alternative thinking until he concluded that each of these teachings was substantiated.

Of the three teachings, the most impactful was Peter’s conviction that Jesus Christ was God Incarnate. This meant that we could no longer put His teachings aside. They were the Word of God. We needed to internalize them and act on them. Christ insisted there was no greater teaching than His Greatest Commandment. When we examined its five all’s, we discovered how much they demanded of each of us, enriching our understanding of God’s purpose of our lives.

That done, Peter experienced an epiphany. If Jesus demanded so much in just two sentences, how much more might He be demanding in his over-400 teachings. Peter devised an ingenious way of synthesizing Jesus’ teachings to four short paragraphs, stating Jesus’ additional demands of us. That done, Peter was sure of his knowledge of what Jesus said, but not of what He did. Using C.S. Lewis’ thinking, Peter came to the conviction that Jesus’ miracles were real. This addressed his remaining doubt about the reality of the Eucharist. Receiving it daily at Mass is what brought us to where we are today.

WAYNE

Thank you all so much for sharing Peter’s blessed journey with us.

PETER

And thank you all for shepherding me along that journey.

As people begin to leave, Wayne approaches Peter and gives him a fond embrace. Peter’s smile is spontaneous.

WAYNE

Welcome to The Club, my dear friend.

Peter laughs softly. They embrace as old friends, reunited. In Wayne’s face, there is happiness for his friend. In Peter’s face, there is something deeper, the quiet ecstasy of a life whose purpose is finally being fulfilled.

{SHOW THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE ON THE SCREEN}

Peter’s story is real. The names of the story’s characters have been changed to protect their privacy. Having achieved his metanoia, Peter (Del H. Smith) more fully describes his story in his book,

and its appendix,

FADE TO BLACK.