Am I my brothers’ keeper?” – Genesis 4:9

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

“Am I my brother’s keeper?” There is a temptation to answer this question — asked by Cain after he killed his brother Abel — in the negative. But to answer “no” to that question would be a flawed understanding of this passage in the Book of Genesis.

Gardening in containers is an excellent choice for almost every gardener.  Containers can be used in many places — a large patio, or a small patio, a bare spot or a shared spot. Containers are especially great for parishioners with limited space and where traditional gardens are not possible. Those of us who live in apartments or are renting have the perfect solution in container gardening. They also work beautifully in areas that have poor soil or if there aren’t any means to do landscaping and upkeep.

We have entered into the season of Lent, when we are called to practice more intensely the disciplines of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. In the prayer department, we can be greatly aided by books that help us to meditate on Christ’s passion and death. Below are several suggestions:

NEW YORK. Lent is intended to be a period of ongoing or renewed conversion both for the faithful and for those about to enter the church as together they prepare for the annual celebration of the Lord’s passion, death and resurrection. Spiritual transformation can be a difficult experience to depict on screen but some films have succeeded in portraying it well.

Following, in alphabetical order, are five classic movies and one contemporary production that showcase people’s ability to change their lives for the better. Unless otherwise noted, the OSV News classification of each is A-II — adults and adolescents. Motion Picture Association ratings are listed where applicable. All six titles are available on disc and/or for streaming.