Mary of Nazareth


I took the two big girls to Mary of Nazareth this afternoon.  Just as the title implies, it tells the story of Mary of Nazareth, the mother of Jesus.  It was almost 3 hours in length, but didn't feel like a long movie aside from my pregnant bladder needing a few potty-breaks! 

My daughters are ages 13 and 12 and it was appropriate in content for them.  There were a few moments where I felt a bit uncomfortable.  It is different reading about Mary Magdalene being a prostitute and actually seeing what her life may have looked like.  The most disturbing scene that I wasn't prepared for was the killing of all the Holy Innocents at King Herod's command.

On the drive home, we had some nice discussion about the movie.  We all concluded that it was enlightening to see a portrayal of stories that we have read dozens of times and have them brought to life.  Imagine how difficult it was for Mary to be pregnant as everyone assumed that she had an adulterous relationship that brought great shame to her family.  Imagine how painful it would be to have your own family think you were lying about the conception of your child.  Imagine the utter despair a mother would feel watching her innocent son die the horrible death of crucifixion.

We also mentioned that it is just one person's interpretation of what Mary's life may have been like.  There is some artistic allowance and a few errors that we picked up on.  For example, Pontius Pilate says that the Jews have an "Easter" tradition of having a prisoner released...I think he meant to say Passover!

Have any of you had the chance to view this movie?  If you have an opportunity to see it, I encourage you to do so.  It is worth the time and puts a very personal touch on the life of the Mother of Jesus.

God Bless!

Heather :-)