"Calvary" is tough to watch but ultimately worth it. As always, Bishop-elect Barron reveals its utmost goodness. One of my favorite parts is that we NEVER see Fr. James in an office! He is truly a shepherd of his unruly flock and not only an administrator. I hope that more pastors begin to venture outside of the boundaries of the church property.

I think the priest is in Persona Christi because he dies for the sins of another, despite his own innocence. He pays a debt that "could not be paid", as the offending priest, long dead– the only one that the young twisted soul's vengeful thirst could be slaked by– cannot. Paul Copenhagen's comment below about Peter exiting Rome is also an apt reference. Thank you for the review and commentary, Father. I'll have to give this a look see some night.

When I first saw this film advertised in the Chicago Tribune, I wanted to hear what Fr. Barron had to say about it before I went to see it. The review gave me an idea of the storyline but I had no idea the ending was so operatic. That is so sad. I want to say something like, "it's not how you live, but how you die that is most enduring" but I realize after watching Fr. Barron's video that this is not the point of the movie. The priest in the movie is the living embodiment of forgiveness. I do think though there is some symbolism in the plot...perhaps the priest's character represents the church/clergy in Ireland. But that would be sad if that were true. The first thing I did after listening to this video was go look up the 7 lively virtues. I think I'm going to memorize them.

I think there is a pretty clear parallel to St. Peter here if not perhaps moreso than Christ. This reminds me of the story when Peter was leaving Rome and Christ appeared to him. Peter, running from Roman persecution, asks "Quo Vadis?" (Where do you go?) and is answered by Christ that He is going to Rome to be crucified again, causing Peter to gain the courage to face the persecution. A great analysis though and I will definitely be picking this one up, if not checking it out on Netflix or another such service.