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If you want a fresh perspective on the Jesuit Values, take a short break to watch “Expect Miracles” tonight in the DiMenna-Nyselius Library Multimedia Room at 5:00 p.m.
Filmmakers and Fairfield, Conn. natives Doug Seirup and Brean Cunningham are screening their documentary “Expect Miracles” at Fairfield University in the hopes of sharing the story of the Appalachia Service Project (ASP) and inspiring students to volunteer and get involved.
The film focuses on the Garretts family from Jonesville, Va. After being swindled by a contractor, the Garretts receive assistance from the ASP in rebuilding their home. Both Seirup and Cunningham are former ASP volunteers, and felt compelled to share the story of ASP and poverty in the Central Appalachian Region of North America.
According to Cunningham, as quoted in the press release, “This story tells how a group of volunteers restored the Garrett’s faith in the goodness of people while also showing the change in perspective of the volunteers.”
“Expect Miracles” is a good documentary to watch for someone questioning whether Jesuit values apply to life outside of college. At Fairfield, students are taught the important of caring for the whole person and being men and women for others; turning these values into real-life applications can be a little tricky, especially if students have never attended a service trip.
Cunningham stated that “these values of caring for people and serving them are on full display in the film and demonstrate the magic that results when put into practice.” The film shows not only how hard-working and helpful the ASP volunteers are, but also the emotional journey and connections the volunteers make with the Garretts family.
Like most documentaries that deal with service and volunteerism, “Expect Miracles” shows the compassionate side of humanity.
“Expect Miracles” will run from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m, including a Q&A with both filmmakers. Refreshments will be served.
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