In Good Conscience

Sister Jeannine Gramick has had a controversial career due to her strong support of gays and lesbians in the Catholic Church, resulting in harsh criticism from traditionalists, an order of silence from the Vatican, and a transfer to a more liberally inclined religious order. But as Barbara Rick's affectionate documentary (shot by renowned documentarian Albert Maysles) In Good Conscience reveals, Gramick is a soft-spoken, unfailingly courteous woman who approaches all—even those who disagree vehemently with her beliefs—with remarkable tact and generosity of spirit (one of the most memorable moments here occurs when she talks to a man demonstrating against her views and ends up praying with him). The film looks at Gramick's pioneering work in an outreach program to the gay community and their families, as well as her co-authorship of a book on gays in the church that earned her a reprimand from Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (now the Pope, but then head of the office formerly called the Inquisition), followed by the order to stop speaking on the subject from her superiors. Instead, Gramick continued her ministry, traveling to Rome to urge church authorities—gently and respectfully—to reconsider their position on homosexuality. In Good Conscience serves up a thoroughly engaging portrait of a warm and compassionate crusader who, whatever your opinion of her views, is very likable. DVD extras include audio commentary (by Rick, Maysles, and Gramick), as well as deleted scenes and photo galleries. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)