This is a movie poster for the 2020 documentary "Pray: The Story of Patrick Peyton." The Catholic News Service classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. (CNS/Family Theater Productions)

By Catholic News Service

Moving documentary chronicles the life of Holy Cross Father Patrick Peyton (1909-1992), founder of the Family Rosary movement and tireless advocate of strengthening marital and familial ties through prayer of all kinds.

Filmmaker Jonathan Cipiti uses archival recordings and footage as well as interviews with collaborators, friends and those influenced by his subject’s legacy to trace Father Peyton’s biography from his impoverished childhood in Ireland through his emigration to the United States, his vocation to the priesthood, his seemingly miraculous recovery from near-fatal tuberculosis and on to his decades of publishing and broadcasting his message that “the family that prays together stays together.” This fine account of a naturally shy man whose spiritual fervor drove him to reach out to the elite of Hollywood as well as to the massive crowds he would address in rallies around the world can be recommended for all but the smallest viewers.

Mature themes. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

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