Young People and the Movies
Guidelines for taking young people to see The Passion of the Christ
Diocese of Wilmington
The guidelines for safe environments are clear. Showing movies that are rated 'R' by the Motion Picture Association of America to young people in your parish or school in the Diocese of Wilmington is not permitted. Taking them to see ‘R’ rated movies is not permitted other. But what about going to see movies like The Passion of the Christ? Surely there are exceptions to this rule when such a movie premieres? There are important lessons to be learned and powerful conversations that can result when groups of young people attend such a film.
The answer is yes and no. Clearly there are educational reasons to see the film. Teachable moments like this one don't come around that often. And film and television are such a part of the lives of the Millennial Generation that it would almost be irresponsible not to seize such an opportunity. But there are other points we must consider:
In short:
Have you (the group leader, the teacher, the youth ministry volunteer) seen the film? If not, do not take young people to see it. Go see it yourself first. It may sound obvious, but some adults won’t think to spend the extra time (and money) in their haste to stay on top of current events. Also, you will need time to process the film; to unpack what you see and how you feel after you return home. Only after you've done this for yourself will you be able to be totally present to the young people in your parish/school.
Have you studied what others are saying about the film? It’s important to gather information about the film, including reading reviews and other articles about the movie’s creator, the sources used in its creation, and what experts are saying about its impact on viewers. Reading this kind of information will give you a leg up when difficult questions are raised by the young people. It also provides some background information for the conversations that will arise.
Have you assumed that you know how others will react? Talk to others that have seen the film, when you go see it as a preview (before taking the young people) take peers or colleagues with you and spend some time talking about it afterwards. Don’t assume the young people will react like the adults. They won’t.
Have you planned how you will process the film with young people? This isn’t a movie where you plan to see it and then say to the young people, “Let’s talk about this next week.” Those who have seen it have said they needed time to sit quietly and reflect afterwards. Others have wanted to process it in conversations with friends and family. Still others have needed weeks before talking about it. As with any powerful experience, people will respond differently. While it is important to have set aside time after the film to talk about it, you need to also be ready to be present for those young people who will retreat into their own hearts and minds. Then you’ll need to be ready down the road when they are through reflecting and are ready to talk. Finally, don’t be so anxious that you plan too much as a follow up. Stations of the Cross, having Mass together, eating together, praying together, and having conversations are all great ways of unpacking and celebrating meaningful experiences. Doing all of them on the same day is probably overdoing it.
Have you sought the help of other adults? Having other properly trained adults attend the film with you is important. One person can’t answer the needs of a group of young people. Many adults are necessary to respond to the variety of needs that young people present. And of course, staying within the guidelines of For the Sake of God’s Children is imperative.
Have you checked with the parents of the young people? Regardless of the great ideas you have about what to do with such a teachable moment, it is paramount that you include the parents in these decisions. As the Baptismal Rite reminds us, parents are the first – and best – teachers of their children. If parents wish for their children to not attend the film, that is their prerogative. Attending as part of a group where permission is mandatory, such as a Confirmation program or Religious Ed class, may make it harder for kids to follow their parents’ wishes. Try asking for volunteers or going as a group where attendance is voluntary.
Have you reserved tickets? Again, it may sound simple, but nothing ruins plans more than getting everyone psyched about seeing the movie only to find it’s sold out when you arrive. Check online for advance tickets or send one of your adult volunteers to pick them up.
Do you have enough chaperones? Check out the guidelines found in For the Sake of God’s Children to make sure you follow the diocesan rules regarding the adult to youth ratio and transportation guidelines that are required.
Have you invited your pastor or other parish leaders? Not only can they add another perspective, it’s a great opportunity to highlight the talents and depth of the young people to your parish leadership.
Have you considered how the young people will respond to their Protestant or Jewish brothers and sisters? Especially if the young people go to public schools, it is important to be ready for the questions that may follow. “Did the Jews kill Jesus?” “Why isn’t the Bible taken literally?” and “Are the Gospels biographies?” are some of the questions your young people may ask. Be prepared by having researched and read the appropriate materials.
Have you considered asking professionals to assist you? If not, perhaps you're not that prepared. From every indication this movie will be powerful beyond words. Are you ready for the reaction (or perhaps overreaction) of some of the more emotionally sensitive in your group? If not, please consider contacting a professional counselor to assist in your group's unpacking of this film.
©2004, Catholic Youth Ministry, Diocese of Wilmington.