Word on Fire donates 'Catholicism' to US military

Chicago, Ill., Feb 26, 2012 / 13:00 pm

"Catholicism," the popular 10-part series written and hosted by Father Robert Barron, is being donated to all facets of the Catholic faith communities in the U.S. military across the world by Word on Fire Catholic Ministries.

More than 450 sets of the documentary are being sent to support military priests, chaplains and lay leaders serving the pastoral needs of those on ships, deployed overseas, in V.A. medical centers and on U.S. Military installations around the world.

"The 'Catholicism' series provides an effective opportunity to engage active duty young adults in the Catholic faith,” said Mark Moitoza, the Vice Chancellor for Evangelization at the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.

“We estimate that there are about 300,000 Catholic young adults in the military and our archdiocese recently has been making a concerted effort to reach out to these young men and women serving our country."

In this sweeping documentary, Father Barron tells the story of Catholicism around the world using art, architecture, literature, music and all the riches of the Catholic tradition. The production crew travels to some of the most magnificent and sacred sites around the globe.

"The 'Catholicism' series is not just a documentary about the Church but a means of instilling faith, hope, and love, especially for those, like the members of the military, who might be separated from loved ones or find themselves immersed in the most difficult of circumstances,” said Father Barron.

“It is my hope that this gift will serve as a sign of the Church's comfort and care for all the men and women who serve their country."

Vice Chancellor Moitoza said the series highlights the beauty and impact of the Catholic faith around the world.

“Many in the military have the opportunity to visit these museums, shrines and historical places which shape one’s understanding of what it means to be a disciple in the world today,” he added.

“'Catholicism' is a great way for people to find a home in their faith."

Public television stations across the country including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Philadelphia have aired over 1500 episodes of the series, and it is also airing on EWTN.

As the nation’s only archdiocese without geographical boundaries, the Archdiocese for Military Services endorses priests for on-site ministry at more than 200 locations throughout the country and around the world. It serves Catholics and their families in the U.S. armed forces, V.A. medical centers and overseas civilian posts.

Worldwide, an estimated 1.5 million Catholics depend on these priests to serve their spiritual and sacramental needs.