We should pray for our military chaplains!
"Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain’s Journey" will hit theaters on November 8, 2024—just before Veteran's Day.
The documentary follows the heroic stories of chaplains in the United States military. Produced by Paulist Productions, the film also tells the incredible story of the army chaplain, prisoner of war, and possible future saint, Servant of God Father Emil Kapaun.
Here's the film's synopsis, according to the official website:
"When the remains of prisoner of war and Army combat chaplain Emil Kapaun (perhaps the Vatican’s next saint) are identified after 70 years, much of our nation is captivated by their journey home. As a younger former chaplain unexpectedly embarks on his own journey to greet them, he becomes inspired by the untold stories of the 419 U.S. military chaplain heroes who’ve given their lives for this unique calling. As the paths of these combat chaplains from different eras finally collide, we’re reminded how the profound weight of history and the immense power of love can converge to produce a life-changing healing."
Executive producer and Vice President of Paulist Productions Father Tom Gibbons, CSP, spoke with ChurchPOP editor Jacqueline Burkepile about "Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain’s Journey."
He said Father Kapaun's bravery inspires him and hopes others take away the Servant of God's "ministry of presence."
"He was present with people in the roughest times to the end in such a dramatic way– to the point where he was walking with them and not at a comfortable distance. But walking side-by-side to the point where he was really one with his troop," Father Gibbons explained.
The priest then elaborated on why the film discusses the overarching impact of military chaplains.
"These chaplains really go above and beyond to service the spiritual needs of all they encounter," Father Gibbons said.
Father Gibbons expressed his hope that this film will serve as a "witness of unity," especially during a time of division in the United States.
"The witness that these men and women provide in life and death situations in many ways, I think, they have something to teach us all in terms of just being present to one another and walking with one another within our various backgrounds," he said. "What does it mean to be the best as an American?"
Recruiting Chris Pratt for "Fighting Spirit..."
Father Gibbons then explained that the film's director, Rich Hall, recruited well-known Hollywood actor Chris Pratt as an executive producer.
"It really spoke to him [Chris Pratt]," he said. "We're just so grateful because I think having someone like Chris Pratt on our film helps expose it to just that many more people."