Theatrical Film Dramatizes Work of Anti-Trafficking Hero
PROVO, Utah – The new film “Sound of Freedom,” starring Jim Caviezel, is coming to theaters nationwide, beginning July 4. (See here for San Diego-area showings.)
The film is based on the true story of former U.S. government agent Tim Ballard, who quit his job to dedicate his life to saving children from sex trafficking. Caviezel, who is best known for his portrayal of Jesus in Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ,” plays Ballard in the film.
“I am so proud to be a part of this impactful film,” the actor said. “In fact, I’d say this is the second-most important film I’ve done after ‘The Passion of the Christ.””
Written and directed by Alejandro Monteverde, the film also stars Academy Award-winner Mira Sorvino and Eduardo Verástegui, who is also a producer.
Chapel Renovation Project Gets Big Boost
ESCONDIDO — John Paul the Great Catholic University, also known as JPCatholic, has received a $1-million lead gift for its St. Teresa of Calcutta Chapel renovation.
The donor family, who have asked to remain anonymous, are the parents of a JPCatholic alum. Their donation greatly accelerates the university’s campaign to complete the fundraising necessary to renovate its chapel building, which was purchased in 2016.
So far, the university has raised $2 million, which is 40% of the estimated $5 million required for the project.
The 10,000-square-foot Mediterranean Revival structure was purchased in 2016 for $800,000 with the help of a lead $330,000 gift from a San Diego family. The chapel design received a $100,000 lead gift from the Los Angeles-based Dan Murphy Foundation.
In addition to the chapel renovation, JPCatholic’s multi-year comprehensive $18-million “Build for Impact” fundraising campaign seeks to raise funds for student scholarships and to renovate the university’s Creative Arts Academic Complex.
“The addition of our Creative Arts complex and chapel promise to transform JPCatholic — both intellectually and spiritually. … As we celebrate 20 years (since the university’s founding), now is the perfect time to ensure our continued growth and our pursuit of academic and operational excellence,” said JPCatholic’s founding president, Dr. Derry Connolly.
For more information or to support the “Build for Impact” campaign, visit jpcatholic.edu/giving/index.php.
Saints Names Building After Team Doctor
SAN DIEGO — A new building at St. Augustine High School has been given a name: The Jerome “Doc” Wisniew ’64 Athletic Training Room.
Wisniew was honored May 2 on the high school’s campus in recognition of his community service to members of the school community.
A member of the graduating class of 1964, Wisniew is a doctor of podiatric medicine who has served as the high school’s team podiatrist for 50 years.
Catholics Can ‘Encounter’ Jesus in Rancho Peñasquitos
SAN DIEGO — Encounter, a Spirit-filled evening of inspiring music, prayer, Eucharistic adoration, a healing service and reconciliation, is held on the second Friday of each month at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Rancho Peñasquitos.
Sponsored by the parish’s Hearts of Fire Ministry, the event runs from 7 to 8 p.m.
Upcoming dates include July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10 and Dec. 8.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish is located at 13541 Stoney Creek Road, San Diego 92129.
For more information, contact the Hearts of Fire Ministry at olmcheartsoffire@gmail.com.
Men Invited to Join ‘Rosary Crusade’
SAN DIEGO — The Men’s Rosary Crusade gathers at 9 a.m., every first Saturday of the month, at the corner of 6th & Laurel in Balboa Park. All men are welcome.
The rosary intentions are for reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, for the conversion of America, for families and for the unborn.
For more information, email sdrosarycrusade@gmail.com or call/text (619) 909-3194.
Street Evangelization Brings Gospel to Public Square
SAN DIEGO — St. Paul Street Evangelization is a grassroots, nonprofit organization dedicated to taking the Gospel message to the streets.
Participants in the ministry do this in a non-confrontational way, allowing the Holy Spirit to move in the hearts of those who witness their public Catholic presence.
For more information or to get involved, visit streetevangelization.com, call (619) 515-3267 or email scb@procopio.com.
