Filmed during a recent retreat for Roman Catholic clergy and laypersons in Belleville, IL, Sacred Fire is a straightforward presentation of three lectures by Ron Rolheiser, a member of the Order of Oblates of Mary Immaculate and President of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio. Rolheiser, a theologian, author, and newspaper columnist who tackles complex moral issues without jargon or stridency, discusses sexuality here in a manner that—while orthodox—presents the church's relevant teachings in an engaging fashion, punctuated by personal anecdotes and moments of levity. The first talk offers anthropological observations on the natural power of the sex drive. The second turns to a broader understanding that sees it as “divine fire,” summoning a person from an egocentric concern with self to connection with others and God. The final hour moves to a proper Christian view that portrays sexuality as good, indeed sacred, but also as a force easily corrupted if not kept “chaste”—i.e., trivialized into something casual and coarse. Peppered with quotations from thinkers ranging from Plato to Allan Bloom and illuminated with occasional photos and artwork representations, Sacred Fire is a thought-provoking examination that will be especially welcomed by Catholic viewers. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)
Sacred Fire: An Anthropology and Spirituality of Sexuality
(2010) 152 min. DVD: $19.99. Oblate Media (dist. by Videos With Values). PPR. ISBN: 978-932142-73-8-3. Volume 26, Issue 2
Sacred Fire: An Anthropology and Spirituality of Sexuality
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