Thank God for the Hidden Martyrs

I have wondered many times about the untold numbers of people who have led "saintly" or exemplary Christian lives, without the rest of us having a clue about their existence. Human societies have tended toward pushing some, including those who are religious, up on pedestals, and there are times when they haven't deserved or sought acclaim. Then there are those who attempt to live out their allegiance to God and Christ even though there is risk, even death without the wider world ever being aware of them. 

The celebrated film-maker Terrence Malick, is telling the story of one such person. His latest film explores the life of Franz Jägerstätter, an Austrian farmer and devout Catholic who refused to fight for the Nazis in World War 2. He avoided military service on religious grounds for several years but was eventually imprisoned and executed at the age of 36. 





Austrian theologian and writer Erna Putz has written about this conscientious objector and martyr over the past 40 years, determined to promote his faithful life to the public. She was impressed by the film when she attended an advance screening. 

I'm hoping that this will make it the Empire Theatre here in Belleville, perhaps as part of Quinte Film Alternative. I could use a little inspiration these days. Take a look at the trailer.

https://www.google.com/search?q=a+hidden+life+trailer&rlz=1C1OKWM_enCA849CA849&oq=a+hidden+life+trailer&aqs=chrome..69i57j0l5.6046j0j8&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

Edited by Erna Putz Orbis Books, 2009