St. Augustine’s faith journey focus of feature-length film

WASHINGTON (CNS) — St. Augustine’s “Confessions,” the autobiographical account of his sinful youth and eventual conversion to Christianity, may be a centuries-old story but its message still resonates today, according to the head of Ignatius Press.
For the first time, a feature film – titled “Restless Heart” – will tell the story of the fifth-century doctor of the Church’s journey to faith, said Mark Brumley, CEO of Ignatius Press.
“Catholics who have children who stray and leave the faith, or a spouse who is not Catholic … can learn from the example of St. Augustine,” Brumley said in a telephone interview with Catholic News Service.
St. Augustine of Hippo (A.D. 354-430) “was raised in a family situation where his mother was a Christian and his father was not. He was not baptized as a child. He went off to school and was exposed to many perspectives at odds with faith,” he said.
Later, after he converted to Christianity in 386 and was baptized, he “came to be a major figure,” Brumley said.
The title of the movie is taken from a famous quote of St. Augustine: “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in thee.”
The U.S. debut of the film was scheduled for Aug. 29 during the 2012 Catholic Marketing Network Trade Show Center.
Ignatius Press is working with parishes, organizations and individuals who want to arrange a screening of the film at a local theater or some other appropriate venue. Information about arranging a screening can be found online at www.restlessheartfilm.com.
“Restless Heart” can be a fundraiser for parishes or groups, aswell as a “faith raiser,” Brumley noted, which can help people deepen their faith during Pope Benedict XVI’s Year of Faith, which starts in October.
“It is a truly inspirational film and I think people will be greatly moved,” Brumley said. “They will be moved and inspired by the story of St. Augustine.”