Romans 8:37 (2017)

Romans 8:31-39

The title of this movie comes from one of my favourite texts from the Bible: Romans 8:31–39. In this passage, Saint Paul explains how great the love of God is for us through Jesus Christ. I had trouble understanding how this applies to the movie, but it truly gives us something to reflect upon once the movie is over. There are also many Bible verses included in the film, but they appear and disappear in the blink of an eye, and I couldn't really connect them to the story. The director probably wants us to do a kind of workshop or reflection on the state of our service in the Church. The overall theme of the movie is about sinful people who work in the Church. Since I am a priest, I feel I am the intended audience—and I can say it truly made me examine my conscience.

From an outsider’s perspective, some people might interpret this film as a denunciation of the Church, revealing the corruption that exists among pastors who become false idols. It's true that many could find reasons to stop believing or attending Church because of the bad behaviour of religious leaders. But for me, this challenging movie is a testimony to us weak and sinful people that God is always beyond us. We can trust in his Love but we must be humble.

There is also a very young girl in the movie. She barely appears, but her subplot about cookies is so strong and provocative. That little subplot is simple, but theologically it’s quite powerful. What to do with love that hurts someone?

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