'Pray' Documentary Film Screening Oct. 4

The local and University communities are invited to attend a documentary film screening of "Pray, The Story of Patrick Peyton" on Wednesday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. in the Moskovitz Theater, DeNaples Center, Room 401.

The 70-minute documentary shares the path of an Irish teenager who immigrated to Scranton in 1928, worked at the Cathedral of St. Peter and became one of history's greatest advocates for family prayer.

Vice President for Mission and Ministry Daniel Cosacchi, Ph.D. explains what makes it a must-see film.

"There are many things that make this film a great experience for us, but if I could point to one in particular, it would be Fr. Peyton’s local connection to our area. After immigrating from Ireland, Fr. Peyton landed right here in town and even discovered his vocation to the priesthood here in Scranton. One of Fr. Peyton’s first jobs as a young man was working in St. Peter’s Cathedral, which is a short walk from our campus."

In 1928, Patrick Peyton immigrated to Scranton, where his family members were residing in America. Unable to find work, a young Patrick Peyton accepts the position as a janitor at the St. Peter's Cathedral, which rekindles his desire to become a priest and changes the course of his life. Fr. Peyton, shown, convinces Hollywood’s biggest stars to help him spread the message, “The family that prays together stays together.”

Fr. Peyton’s fame spreads globally and audiences in the millions flock to his public prayer rallies. This is the story of a tireless missionary, an unlikely hero, and one of history’s greatest advocates for family prayer.

"We became involved in hosting this screening because of our long and happy connection with Dave and Ann Hawk, who are well-known because of Gertrude Hawk Chocolates and for all of their philanthropy here in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The Hawks have been avid supporters of Fr. Peyton’s cause for canonization for many years, even leading a monthly Rosary recitation at St. Peter Cathedral to pray for Fr. Peyton’s cause. The Hawks thought hosting the screening here at the University would be a great idea, and we agreed!" said Dr. Cosacchi.

A panel discussion will follow the film, featuring Fr. David Marcham, shown, Vice Postulator of the Cause for Venerable Patrick Peyton.

"We can expect more conversation about Fr. Peyton’s life, and his links to Scranton, as well as the process of a cause of canonization.

But also, it will be great to hear more about other aspects of Fr. Peyton’s life that will be touched on in the film, especially the moniker given him, 'The Rosary Priest' and his being credited with coming up with the phrase, 'The family that prays together, stays together.' The panel discussion will help us all realize how Fr. Peyton’s life and ministry affect us even today," added Cosacchi.

View the trailer at PrayTheFilm.com