It was beautiful sunny day late in the afternoon. I was in the backyard playing with our kids when I received the news that something horrible had happened to Jerry and Mary Ellen’s family; a tragic loss that no one ever wants to even think of.
I knew their family well as they often would attend Christmas and Easter gatherings with our large family. They were a very present family in our Catholic community so the shock of their reality also became our reality. Anyone that ever met Jerry and Mary Ellen quickly learned that underneath his quick wit and her sweet sarcasm was a couple that truly loved each other and were deeply devoted to their family.
“In this [eternal inheritance] you rejoice, although now for a little while you may have to suffer through various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Although you have not seen him you love him; even though you do not see him now yet believe in him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, as you attain the goal of [your] faith, the salvation of your souls.”
1 Peter 1:6-9
When Jerry’s book came out this past year about their journey through loss I wanted to produce a film to promote it and Jerry’s upcoming ‘Yellow Crocks’ speaking tour. I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org.
I had already produced two films on their family but as we entered into production something new began to emerge from their story, that I must admit in previous attempts to document their journey through tragedy, I had missed. In fact, this ‘pearl of great price’ resulted in me asking Jerry to even do a second interview; a rare occurrence in the inspirational Catholic docu-drama films I’m accustomed to producing.
The single most important thing I’ve learned as a storyteller and disciple of Christ is the need to listen. The wisdom of God’s language, silence, has become sweet and relevant reality from my daily holy hour. The adoration of God, however, is also a way of life where we have the opportunity to do something beautiful for love of Him and souls just like Jerry. I’m so grateful that at some point in production I was able to detach from the familiarity of their story I knew, the story I convinced myself I knew, the story I wanted to know and simply begin listening anew. I hope this film helps you to renew this disposition in your own life and please remember; your Merciful Savior awaits your presence too at His feet to simply come, rest and listen.
To learn more about the BMA Foundation and Jerry’s Yellow Crocks Tour for bookings, his new book and much more please visit:
