Family Films About Priests: A Collection of Faith and Family

Description: This biographical drama tells the story of Saint Bernadette Soubirous and her visions of the Virgin Mary, with a local priest initially skeptical but eventually supportive of her claims.

Fact: Jennifer Jones won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Bernadette, and the film also won Oscars for Best Cinematography and Best Art Direction.

Description: Father O'Malley, a young and unconventional priest, arrives at a parish in New York City to help rejuvenate the church and its community, blending humor with heartfelt moments.

Fact: Bing Crosby won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Father O'Malley, and the film also won Best Picture.

Description: Father Francis Chisholm's journey to establish a mission in China is filled with trials and tribulations, making this an inspiring tale of faith and dedication.

Fact: Gregory Peck's performance earned him his first Academy Award nomination.

Description: This classic film follows Father O'Malley as he navigates the challenges of running a struggling parochial school alongside Sister Benedict, highlighting themes of faith, education, and community spirit.

Fact: Bing Crosby reprised his role as Father O'Malley from the earlier film "Going My Way," making this a spiritual sequel. The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards.

Description: An angel comes to help a bishop with his problems, leading to a heartwarming story about faith, love, and the true meaning of Christmas, with the bishop at the center of the narrative.

Fact: The film was remade in 1996 as "The Preacher's Wife" with Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington.

Description: This film recounts the true story of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal, with a local priest playing a pivotal role in the events.

Fact: The film was one of the first to depict the Fatima apparitions and was released just a few years after the events were officially recognized by the Catholic Church.

Description: While not directly about a priest, this film features a reverend who plays a crucial role in the life of Helen Keller and her teacher, Annie Sullivan, highlighting themes of faith and perseverance.

Fact: Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke won Academy Awards for their performances, with Duke being the youngest actress to win an Oscar at the time.

Description: A light-hearted comedy about two mischievous girls at a Catholic boarding school and their interactions with the patient and wise Mother Superior, who is a former nun turned priest in the film.

Fact: Rosalind Russell, who plays the Mother Superior, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance. The film was based on the novel "Life with Mother Superior" by Mary Coyle Chase.

Description: This film tells the true story of Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty, an Irish priest who helped save thousands of lives during World War II, showcasing the bravery and moral compass of a man of the cloth.

Fact: Gregory Peck stars as O'Flaherty, and the film was shot in Rome, where many of the real events took place.

Description: A comedic take on the life of St. Joseph of Cupertino, a simple-minded friar who becomes a saint despite his reluctance, with a priest guiding him through his spiritual journey.

Fact: Maximilian Schell stars as the saint, and the film was shot on location in Italy, adding to its authenticity.