Women of the Faith… Labouring for God

Thursday January 26 — 6 p.m. (English); 7 p.m. (French)

It’s been 60 years since the Quiet Revolution drastically changed the province of Quebec. Explore the remarkable evolution of Catholic nuns in Quebec through this fascinating documentary.

This film explores the evolution of the work and mission of Catholic nuns in Quebec society.The social upheaval caused by the Quiet Revolution in the 1960s marked a decline in their activities, leading to a redefinition of their mission. Despite a move towards secularism in today’s society, the nuns continue to create and support networks both here and in the developing world. Through patience and faith, they stand behind their convictions, tireless in their efforts to make the world a better place.

Concept: Lucie Lachapelle; Creative Director: Lucie Lachapelle and Andrée Dufresne; Produced by André Gladu.

National Film Board of Canada—1999; 50 minutes

Tales of Sand and Snow

Thursday, February 23, 2012 — 6 p.m. (French); 7 p.m. (English)

It is said that the world’s religions share a common thread. Join Hyacinthe as he rediscovers traditional Animism in the heart of an Attikamek reserve in Quebec, and explores how it connects him to his African roots.

In a world in which values and traditions are disappearing, Hyacinthe is a Quebec immigrant trying to reconnect with his Gurman ethnicity and traditions. While learning about First Nations traditions in Quebec, he brings viewers along to the Aboriginal reserve of the Attikamek—who, like his own people, have a long tradition of Animism. This highlypersonal trip transports viewers both literally and figuratively into the heart of a forest of memory and tradition.

Concept and Creative Director: Hyacinthe Combary; Produced by Yves Bisaillon

National Film Board of Canada—2004; 50 minutes

Mystical Brain

Thursday, March 22, 2012 — 6:30 p.m. (English and French with subtitles)

Can science explain or quantify the religious experience?

Follow a team of scientific researchers as they try to use technology to find the answer to this question.

This short documentary reveals the exploratory work of a team from the University of Montréal which seeks to understand the states of grace experienced by mystics and those who meditate. Renowned filmmaker Isabelle Raynauld follows scientists whose research suggest that mystical ecstasy is a transformative experience, which could contribute to people’s psychic and physical health, treat depression, and speed up the healing process when combined with conventional medicine.

Research, filming and production: Isabelle Raynauld

National Film Board of Canada—2006; 52 minutes