Radio Main Characters Coach Jones (played by Ed Harris)

Coach Jones is a leader, seasoned educator and sports coach at Hanna High. He has a family consisting of a wife and teenage daughter. He is well respected in the community for his professional opinion and expertise in sports. In the past, no one questioned Coach Jones' judgement, until now.

Radio (played by Cuba Gooding Jr.)Radio is a teenage boy with special education needs. At present, he does not attend highschool as his age appropriate peers do. He is fully grown. He appears to be shy, and most often keeps to himself. He can communicate using basic language but cannot read or write. Prior to meeting Coach Jones, he is never shown with peers, or interacting with other people besides his mother. Radio also plays the role of a leader but in a different respect as compared to Coach Jones.

Mrs. Linda Jones (played by Debra Winger)Mrs. Jones plays the traditionally historical role of the happy housemaker. She is always available to cater to the needs of Coach Jones when he arrives home from practice or other outings. She is shown completing various domestic activities such as cooking, and sewing. She is the primary careprovider for their teenage daughter. Mrs. Jones supports the activities of Coach Jones, but from time to time can be the voice of reason.

Principal Daniels Principal Daniels is the Principal of Hanna Highschool. She is a middle age black woman in the southern states. The fact that she is a racial minority and female in this position is unique to the area of the United States and the time period the movie was framed in. Principal Daniels is level headed. She takes her position very seriously. She has a well established relationship with Coach Jones. Mrs. Daniels is initially somewhat fearful of the presence of students with special educational needs in the school. Principal Daniels plays the leadership role as the head of the highschool.

Honeycutt Honeycutt is Coach Jones' coaching partner. Together, they run the athletics department of Hanna High. Honeycutt is the assistant coach of the football team, and the head coach of the basketball team. Honeycutt has a mild manner about him, and respects Coach Jones' judgement. He frequently carries out the requests of Coach Jones without question. Although

Honeycutt is not the head of the athletic department, he plays a leadership role in that students look up to him in the coaching realm he fulfills throughout the storyline.

Frank Clay Frank Clay is the Bank Manager of the bank in Anderson. He is also the father of Johnny Clay, star athlete of Hanna High. Frank is shown mostly throughout the movie as a spectator at the sporting events held by the school. He can be opinionated in questioning the coaching decisions of Coach Jones and Honeycutt during and after sporting events at Hanna Highschool. Frank holds a prestigious position in the community as Bank Manager. This position is associated with the management of money, which relates to prestige and power. He is revered by many folk of the community as they would have to approach him with personal requests for money throughout their lifetimes. Therefore, any relationship with Frank must stay positive or his connection with money at the bank could come back and haunt an individual for a long time.

Mary Helen Mary Helen is the daughter of Coach Jones. She is a typical teenage girl who also is a cheerleader for Hanna High. She seems well adjusted, and is an only child. She has some friends and is social with them. She does not have a great relationship with her father. She rarely sees him, and he is not in touch with what is happening in her life. Despite the fact that Mary Helen is a cheerleader at the same sporting events that her father coaches at, she does not spend much time with him. Her role in the plot of the story is to show that even though Coach Jones is reknown for his contributions to Hanna High, he has one area of his life that is not perfect; his relationship with his daughter.

Mrs. Kennedy Mrs. Kennedy is Radio's mother. She is a black, middle aged widow working many hours as a nurse to support Radio and herself. She lives in a small, run down area of the community. Mrs. Kennedy toils in life to make ends meet. She is compassionate towards Radio because of his condition, and does much to protect him. She shows appreciation for Coach Jones' interest in Radio as being sincere and well meaning.

Johnny Clay Johnny Clay is the highschool jock or sports allstar. He has a cocky attitude that depicts a sense of entitlement. He is the leader of the football and basketball teams. His fellow team members look up to him for leadership and example. They follow him. He is attempting to impress sports scouts throughout the film to earn himself a scholarship to a good university. He is ruthless to achieve his own goals. He mistreats Radio throughout the movie.

Radio Plot Summary

The first scene of the movie introduces us to Radio. He is depicted as being poor. He is shown pushing around a shopping cart walking around the town, entertaining himself. His actions imply that he may have special needs. Other people in the community avoid him. He enjoys listening to the radio. A significant point in this scene is that the intolerance of people towards Radio is shown

In the second scene, we are introduced to Coach Jones. He is a prominent high school football coach at Hanna High school. He is well liked, and respected throughout the community. He has a solid reputation for making good decisions, and has past football championships to support his reputation.

Next, the football team is practicing. There is an emphasis on teamwork. Radio watches the team from afar behind a fence.

The focus changes to the Coach returning to his own home. We are introduced to his wife Linda, and daughter Mary Helen. The coach uses a phrase with his wife and daughter that said "You work hard, play hard, and then succeed." This seemed to be a life motto that he was discussing with them. The fact that the Coach doesn't relate well to his daughter Mary Helen is shared with the audience.

Some discrimination on the part of the football players was shown towards Radio. The Coach finds his players tormenting Radio. They locked him in a shed with his hands and mouth bound by tape. The door of the shed was shut, with all lights off. The players proceeded to throw footballs against the outside of the shed door. These actions terrified Radio, who had very little communication skills.

Eventually when the Coach realized what was happening, he released Radio, and tried to soothe him. Coach Jones asked the group for an explanation. They were punished for their actions. It was at this point in the movie that the Coach empathized with Radio and began to establish a relationship with him.

Coach Jones meets Radio and apologizes for what happened to him. The Coach invited Radio to come to the football practice. When the Coach returns home that evening, his wife questions his priorities in terms of the amount of time that he spends with the football team, and his attention towards his daughter Mary Helen. We are further introduced to the Coach's daughter Mary Helen. She is a cheerleader at Hanna High school, and cheers when her father's football team plays.

Scene 3 shows Coach Jones using his expertise and leading his team to victory in a football game. Radio watches him, and the Coach notices him as well. As a ritual after each football game, the locals gathered at the barbershop to discuss how the game went. Everyone puts in their two cents. Some of these people are peers of the Coach, some are townsfolk, and others are parents of the football players. One of the people at the barbershop asks the Coach about his plan to win, and he chooses not to share it.

We are finally introduced directly to Radio. The Coach approaches him at the fence after a football game and offers Radio water. Following that, he invited Radio to come into the office and have some hamburgers and coke. After entering the office, Radio sees the radio on the counter and is immediately drawn to it.

After they are finished their meal, Coach Jones drives Radio home. He is friendly to him, and works on establishing a relationship with him. When they arrive at Radio's house, we meet Mrs. Kennedy, Radio's mother. Coach Jones introduces himself and explains why he gave Radio a ride.

We learn that Mrs. Kennedy is a supportive, single mother. She is a nurse and has to work long hours. As a result, Radio doesn't have as much supervision as necessary. Her husband has passed away, and her older son Walter does not live at home. Mrs. Kennedy explains Radio's condition to the Coach. We later find out that Mrs. Kennedy has a heart condition.

Coach Jones is shown gearing up the team for upcoming games. He introduces Radio to the team as their mascot. He explains to the players his role and tells them that they're not going to have a problem with that. Throughout the practice, some of the team members tease Radio, and make fun of him.

The scene moves on to the next football game for the team. Radio accidentally participates in the game. The fans in the stands start to question why Radio is there.

By participating in the team situation, Radio feels pride, and includes him in a social setting.

Some comments are shared with Coach Jones regarding Radio participating in the football team events. The Coach speaks to Mrs. Kennedy to see if she minds if Radio goes on a trip with the team. In this discussion, she expresses her concern about the authorities, and "only needing 1 excuse to put him away." Coach Jones feels empathy for her and Radio.

We meet Principal Daniels. She is a black, female principal who seems very strong in her role. She speaks to Coach Jones at school about concerns regarding Radio going with them on the trip. She questions the Coach's motives, and asks if Radio is a 'glorified mascot'. She talks to Coach Jones about concerns she has about 'being around a mentally challenged boy'. Principal Daniels says "Folks don't understand yet; but they'll catch on."

Eventually after their discussion, the Coach changes his mind about Radio attending the trip. He told Radio that he couldn't come, and the scene ends with Radio standing in the pouring rain as the football team bus pulls away. Radio stands in the rain listening to the radio and acting out the plays as he hears them called out.

This scene shows Coach Jones and Radio sitting in a cafe. They are becoming friendlier. The Coach is viewing Radio as a human being, and is concerned about what will happen to him after the football season ends.

We are shown that people still are questioning Radio being around. He has given away plays, caused the team to have trouble (unsportsmanlike conduct penalties). Despite this unplanned event, the team does turn around the score and takes a win over 'Westside', their opponent.

After the game, Coach Jones thanks the team members by giving them an inspirational talk. He gives Radio the game ball.

Scene 9 is set in the Barbershop setting. Coach Jones is sharing with his friends the summary of the game. He expresses that he is proud of his boys. One man questions the Coach's ability and suggests that the Coach is distracted by Radio. As a result, the Coach leaves the shop.

There is a suggestion in this scene that there is a disgruntled parent, who is no other than Frank the Banker. He is the father of the lead jock on the football team. It has been implied earlier in the film that the father was ticked off at the Coach for having Radio around. This sentiment is reflected again at the end of this scene

Radio is disappointed about the end of the football season. His mother comforts him. Coach Jones and Honeycutt discuss the possibility of Radio assisting with the basketball team. Coach Jones leaves the decision up to Coach Honeycutt. It is decided, and Radio starts helping the basketball team.

This scene begins with Radio taking the school bus to school. Principal Daniels asks Coach Jones about Radio coming to school. She sets parameters with him. After a few classes, Coach Jones tries to teach Radio to spell his name.

We meet Radio and Coach Jones at the cafe again. It is very obvious that Radio and the Coach have become friendly and familiar. The level of their relationship is shown, in that it is a good one.

A school board inspector arrives at Hanna High. The inspection relates directly to Radio being at the school. The Coach, Principal, and the Inspector are featured. The Inspector argues that 'the school has no experience having a severely retarded man walking down our halls- the risk is enormous.' The Inspector warns the Principal and Coach.

Afterwards, Principal Daniels questions the Coach as to what his motives are for helping Radio. His response was that 'Radio helps with basketball, and he is doing ok.' They reflect together on Radio's progress, and determine that he is doing well.

This scene shows Radio involved with Coach Jones' family. They are having a Christmas tree celebration outdoors in the community. Many people bring gift donations for Radio. Coach Jones' daughter Mary Helen makes a comment that 'people are feeling sorry for him.' (Meaning Radio)

This scene is an important one in the movie. It is at this point that Coach Jones recognizes his deficit in his relationship with his own daughter. Mary Helen pipes

up and says that she understands that Radio needs the Coach's help more than she does.

Christmas: Coach Jones is shown sharing Christmas Cheer with Radio. This brings much joy to Mrs. Kennedy, Radio, and Coach Jones. Mrs. Kennedy thanks the Coach for his generosity and asks him, 'Why are you doing this?' Coach Jones replies, 'It's the right thing to do. He's no problem at all.'

Meanwhile, back at the Jones' home, Mary Helen falls asleep on Christmas Eve waiting for her father to return to the family home.

In this scene, Radio 're-gifts' the presents he was given at the Tree Lighting Ceremony. He walks around his neighbourhood passing out gifts to his poor neighbours that were donated to him by friends of Coach Jones.

A police car drives by and Radio is arrested. The policeman is a new cop on the beat who doesn't know Radio. He thinks that Radio is not complying with a request. Once the new policeman brings Radio to the station, the other police realize what has happened and calls Coach Jones to come and help Radio out of the jam he is in.

Coach Jones fetches Radio from the station and gives the arresting cop a dirty look as if to say 'how dare you'. The new cop helps Radio pass out the remainder of the gifts to his poor neighbours.

Coach Jones speaks to Radio about school. He reassures Radio that he was a good boy to give out the presents. Radio now has a function of helping at school. He makes announcements on the PA system, and is a hall monitor. He seems to be fitting in and enjoying his time at Hanna.

There is an incident. Radio is set up by the jocks on the basketball team. He is sent into the girls locker room by the boys. When he gets in there, the girls scream because he shouldn't be there. He is set up to seem as if he can't be trusted.

As a result, Radio is very upset. In the end, he covers up for the boys because he doesn't want them to get in trouble. Coach Jones eventually finds out about it and says to Radio, 'You're a better man than me.'

Coach Jones confronts Johnny Clay, the head jock on the basketball team who set up Radio in the girls locker room. Coach Jones suspends the student from playing in the next game because he was directly responsible for what happened to Radio. The student argues with the Coach, but in the end, his word prevails.

Principal Daniels is shown dealing with complaints about the incident in the girls locker room involving Radio. She questions the predictability of his behaviour. She asks 'Where is he going?'

The scene begins with Mary Helen, Coach Jones' daughter being very upset. She relays a message to the Coach that Mrs. Kennedy, Radio's mom has passed away.

Coach Jones goes to Radio. The police are at his house. Radio has torn the place up.

Coach Jones helps Radio deal with the loss. He ensures to Radio that his mom will always be in his heart.

Coach Jones shares a moment with his daughter. Coach Jones tells Mary Helen about a childhood expereince of finding a boy under a porch when he was young. He tells her of how the boy was 'kept there.' He expresses his guilt to her for not letting the boy out.

The School Board Inspector returned to Hanna High. A meeting was called with Principal Daniels and Coach Jones. The Inspector was giving Coach Jones a hard time for having Radio in the school. The questioning was in regards to Radio's inconsistent behaviour.

(this was the result of the incident in the girls locker room)

The Coach's response to the investigation was that 'the school is helping Radio do so well.'

This scene is a critical one to the story line. Coach Jones goes to the bank and confronts the bank manager, Frank Clay, for ratting Radio out to the School Board Inspector. They discuss the issue for a few moments, and Frank Clay's response to Coach Jones is this, "It is better if we do things the way we used to."

In this scene, Coach Jones is working with Radio. It shows the Coach teaching Radio to print. This give Radio esteem, confidence and pride in his accomplishment. Prior to this time, Radio did not know how to do this.

Coach Jones runs into Principal Daniels speaking to Frank Clay, father of basketball star, Johnny Clay. Frank is speaking to the Principal in order to arrange how to remove Radio from the school. Coach Jones becomes aware of this motive and is disappointed in them both.

This scene shows the Hanna High basketball team winning the big game. Mr. Clay questions his son for talking to Radio. Mr. Clay makes a comment to his son about 'Not letting anyone or anything getting in his son's way.'

Coach Jones begins to question what he has done. Mrs. Jones shows her husband support for the relationship between himself and Radio. Mrs. Jones' response was 'it's never a mistake to care for someone.'

The movie concludes with Radio having to move on to the 12th grade. He participates in the graduation ceremony with the other students. He shares the pride of Coach Jones and family, and the Hanna High family in celebrating his promotion to the 12th grade.

The movie ends by showing the real life person, James Robert Kennedy, or Radio,

and the real life Coach Jones. Their relationship is explained, and Radio still assists in coaching at Hanna High up until the date that the movie was released

Information from : http://radioafilmreview.blogspot.com/2007/03/scene-29.html

Issues in the Story Line: Acceptance, Tolerance, and Understanding

Several themes are introduced throughout the storyline. Coach Jones is shown as an authoritarian type teacher / coach who is revered by his students and many people in the community. He is well respected. This general consensus carries through to the sports field and relative games as a result. Historically, people of the town have not questioned Coach Jones' authority or ability as a coach because of his proven track record of being successful for producing a winning team. This element is challenged as Coach Jones develops a relationship with Radio, a mentally challenged teenager. Many of the townsfolk have little understanding or acceptance of individuals with special needs in everyday life, or in the school setting. When Coach Jones brings Radio to the football practices, games, school, and into the community, the community reacts in a variety of ways. Some people immediately question his motives and actions. Other people talk about his decision making ability behind his back, and attempt to take action to fix the problem themselves.

The fact that Coach Jones befriended Radio in a day and age that was facing desegregation, little acceptance of blacks, and heightened fears about people with disabilities, it was a risk-ay thing to take on. Coach Jones' actions invited inspection and criticism from the world around him. The Coach spent some time being introspective about his actions, and explained himself to his wife, Radio's mother, Principal Daniels, and daughter Mary Helen.

The issue of dispelling differences is raised in the movie. On many accounts, the idea that 'we are all God's children' is brought up. Even though Radio experiences bullying, teasing, hazing, and dismissal from many people, he

trusts in the relationship he has built with Coach Jones.

Coach Jones struggled in the movie with maintaining his sense of priorities. He wanted to support Radio's development entirely, but was forced on many occasions to push his convictions aside until he could build a community of acceptance in Anderson. Coach Jones used his influence as a community leader to do so.

The issue of maintaining integrity was a central theme in the movie. Coach Jones was a well known and respected individual in the town. On several occasions, Coach Jones stands up to the people who question him, including his wife, Principal, colleagues, and townsfolk. He makes it very clear that he has the right motives in mind. A quote from Mrs. Jones in the movie reinforces this idea when she says, "It's never wrong to care about someone."

The development of the relationship that Coach Jones had with Radio changed his life. Coach Jones was able to make up for a mistake he made in his past, when he left a boy under a porch who needed help. The Coach felt bad for this and tried to make up for it as an adult. He had felt very guilty about leaving the boy under the porch many years before. This sense of guilt helped to motivate the Coach to continue to assist Radio to have a better life.

This helping behaviour that the Coach shared with Radio helped him get over his feelings of guilt. It also allowed him to develop some feelings of adequacy as a care provider, even though his relationship with his daughter did not improve much throughout the movie. When the Coach shared his feelings with his daughter about the guilt he had harbored, there was a small bridge built to commence the father daughter relationship that previously was non-existent.

These struggles throughout the movie helped to foster an attitude of

acceptance in the community for Radio, in his presence at Hanna High and in Anderson. Coach Jones facilitated understanding of differences, and the overall acceptance of Radio. These issues were a pretty tall order for anyone to take on.

Ethical Dilemmas

"Ethics is the study of values and customs of a person or group and covers the analysis and employment of concepts such as right and wrong, good and evil, and responsibility." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethics)

When considering this definition provided by Wikipedia and the movie Radio, there are fundamental ethical dilemmas that are brought about by the movie's storyline. Throughout the movie, there is a struggle for Coach Jones to do what is right. He has to maintain his values and commitment to Radio throughout the movie regardless of what his colleagues, peers, and family members say about his actions. In essence, what Coach Jones was struggling with can be referred to as 'Pragmatics', or the struggle for goodness or virtue. John Dewey, esteemed educational philosopher wrote in-depth about the subject. Dewey wrote that "the conception of education as a social process and function has no definite meaning until we define the kind of society we have in mind." (Flinders and Thornton, 2004, 264)

Even though Coach Jones was an educator in the 1970s, his ethical standards are comparable to those held by the teaching profession of Ontario teachers of our day. The Ontario College of Teachers recently revised the ethics document of the College to a revised document entitled the Foundations of Professional Practice (2006). In this document, there are four areas of ethical standards that are described. They include: care, respect, trust, and integrity. When considering these four areas in terms of Coach Jones' teaching practice, he is an exemplary example of each item. Coach Jones cares for Radio, shows him and his family respect, establishes trust, and indeed has integrity. He is committed enough to his purpose to stand up to his community and show by example how others should be treated.

A definite underlying theme of the movie could easily be titled, 'Do unto Others as you would Have Them Do unto you.'

The ethical dilemmas are resolved in a series of events in the movie. Initially, Radio is not accepted by the football team members. As he is present at more practices, he becomes involved and gets to know the team. They in turn also get to know him. Their initial fears about individuals with special needs are beginning to be broken down. Once Radio is brought into school, there are a whole new set of people who must adjust to him being around. This includes educational administration, other colleagues, and students of Hanna High. The more people are around Radio they realize that he is just like the other kids in many ways, and is in no way dangerous to be around. Coach Jones brings Radio into the community on several occasions. They eat at a local cafe regularly, and attend community functions together. These outings again help the community adjust their preconceived notions of who Radio really is.

Radio is a silent leader. He leads by example and the Golden Rule: “Do Unto Others as You Would Have Them do Unto You.” Throughout the movie, Radio goes about his business and does not bother anyone. He is a victim at certain points, as a result of other people mistreating him. He does not hold a grudge against them, but continues to befriend the individuals in his life. One might have the impression that Radio is exceptionally naïve, which may be a result of his having special needs. On a second occasion, when Johnny Clay sends him into the girl’s locker room to get him in trouble, Radio purposely does not ‘rat Johnny out’ when asked by Coach Jones what happened. He takes the rap for Johnny Clay, even though Coach Jones knows Radio is covering for him. Eventually, the people of Anderson, South Carolina accept and welcome Radio into the community. The nicest part of this story is that Radio is a real person, and this is a true story. You can visit the website at http://www.radioandcoachjones.com/ .

Coach Jones is an incredible human being. He works as an educator and Head Coach at Hanna High school. He is well liked and respected by all; fellow educators and colleagues, community members, and athletes. He has much experience in the field of Coaching. He uses both Referent and Expert Power to lead in the movie. I would say that it could almost considered reverence how he is treated by the members of the community. Neither according to nor house, Coach Jones holds both “position and personal power”. (p. 7) Coach Jones is a leader in his position as a coach, and by “his capacity to lead as being seen as likable and knowledgeable.” (p. 7)

nor house defines leadership as “a process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal.” (p. 3) Coach Jones does just this. He produces change and movement in the community by establishing direction, aligning people, and inspiring them to change. This is done when he establishes a friendship with Radio and maintains it throughout the movie, despite questioning by family, fellow staff members, and the greater community.

When the movie begins, I have a feeling that Coach Jones has no idea what he has taken on. Throughout the movie, he rises to the occasion of dealing with questioning and ridicule, as well as dispelling the myths and misunderstandings held by the community about Radio in general.

Coach Jones took Radio in, gave him love and encouragement, helped to provide for his needs, supported him in the community, and helped to give him a purpose in life. What greater gift can one person give to another?

The Coach had a very strong set of morals and ethics. He had to face something that had very deep roots in the south; that being racial prejudice and prejudice based on disability. Nor house defines prejudice as “a largely fixed attitude, belief, or emotion held by an individual about another individual based on faulty or unsubstantiated information.” (p. 304) this was exactly the situation in Anderson, South Carolina. In order to overcome this circumstance, Coach Jones conducted himself in a way that was both ethical and character based. Nor house describes principals of ethical leadership as being “building community, respecting others, serving others, showing justice, and manifesting honesty.” (p. 350) Even though there were struggles throughout the film, the Coach was able to overcome the prejudice held by the community members, and work towards building a more humane and rewarding life for Radio.

http://radioafilmreview.blogspot.com/2007/03/leadership-portrayed-in-film.html

The Beatitudes

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Verse 3) Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land. (Verse 4) Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be comforted. (Verse 5) Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill. (Verse 6) Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. (Verse 7) Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God. (Verse 8) Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (Verse 9) Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

(Verse 10) (Source: The Bible, Gospel of Matthew)

Faith Hope Charity fromt eh Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified

The three theological virtues (faith, hope, and charity) allow man to share in God's nature. These virtues relate directly to God who directly infuses these three virtues into the soul where they make the believers capable of living as God's children and meriting eternal life.

Believing What God Revealed (1814-1816)

By faith, we believe in God, in all that he has revealed, and in all that the Church proposes for our belief. Faith leads to a total committal. "The righteous shall live by faith" (Rom 1:17).

When faith is deprived of hope and love, it does not unite the believer to Christ nor make him a living member of the body. "Faith apart from works is dead" (Jas 2:26).

Christ's disciple must spread the faith to others, even if this brings about persecution. Jesus said, "Whoever acknowledge me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father" and "Whoever denies me before men, I will deny before my Father" (Mt 10:43-33).

Hoping and Searching for the Kingdom (1817-1818)

By hope, we seek heaven, place our trust in Christ's promises, and rely on the Holy Spirit. We must "hold fast to our confession of hope" (Heb 10:23). Through the Spirit, we have "become heirs in hope of eternal life" (Titus 3:6-7).

Into everyone's heart, God has placed a search for happiness. Hope responds to this desire. It sustains man, frees him from discouragement, preserves him from selfishness, and leads to happiness on earth and in heaven.

Abraham's Hope (1819)

Israel's hope was modeled upon Abraham who trusted in God's promise even when asked to sacrifice Isaac. "Hoping against hope, he believed, and thus became the father of many nations" (Rom 4:18).

Our Hope of Heaven through Jesus (1820-1821)

Jesus unfolded Christian hope in the beatitudes, proclaiming that those who suffer trials on earth are blessed in heaven. This hope "does not disappoint" (Rom 5:5) because Jesus has gone ahead "as a forerunner on our behalf" (Heb 6:19-20). Therefore, we can hope to gain heaven and to persevere "to the end" (Mt 10:22). The Church prays for "all men to be saved" (1 Tim 2:4) and she awaits union with Christ, the Bridegroom. "Hope, O my soul, hope. Watch carefully. Dream that the more you struggle, the more you will rejoice one day with your Beloved" (St. Teresa of Avila).

Loving God and Neighbor (1822-1824)

By charity, we love God for his own sake and our neighbor as ourselves for the love of God.

Jesus loved us "to the end" (Jn 13:1). He told his disciples to "love one another as I have loved you" (Jn 15:9, 12). Charity keeps the commandments of God and of Christ, "If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love" (Jn 15:9-10).

Paul's Description (1825-1826)

Christ demands that we love everyone, especially our enemies, our neighbors and the poor. St. Paul says that love is patient and kind, believing, helping, and enduring all things. Love is not jealous, boastful, arrogant, rude, irritable, or resentful.

Without charity, "I am nothing" and "I gain nothing." "So faith, hope, and charity abide, these three. But the greatest of these is charity" (1 Cor 13:1-13).

Love Animates the Moral Life (1827-1829)

Charity binds all virtues "together in perfect harmony (Col 3:14) and gives them order. Charity purifies and raises human love to the perfection of God's love.

When charity animates his moral life, the Christian is free from servile fear and lives as a son responding to God who "first loved us" (1 Jn 4:19). "If we obey out of love for him who commands, we are in the position of his children" (St. Augustine).

Charity is benevolent, disinterested, and generous, bringing forth friendship and communion. "Love is the goal. Once we reach it, we shall find rest"(St. Augustine).

. THE HUMAN VIRTUES

1804 Human virtues are firm attitudes, stable dispositions, habitual perfections of intellect and will that govern our actions, order our passions, and guide our conduct according to reason and faith. They make possible ease, self-mastery, and joy in leading a morally good life. The virtuous man is he who freely practices the good.

The moral virtues are acquired by human effort. They are the fruit and seed of morally good acts; they dispose all the powers of the human being for communion with divine love.

The cardinal virtues

1805 Four virtues play a pivotal role and accordingly are called "cardinal"; all the others are grouped around them. They are: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. "If anyone loves righteousness, [Wisdom's] labors are virtues; for she teaches temperance and prudence, justice, and courage."64 These virtues are praised under other names in many passages of Scripture.

1806 Prudence is the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it; "the prudent man looks where he is going."65 "Keep sane and sober for your prayers."66 Prudence is "right reason in action," writes St. Thomas Aquinas, following Aristotle.67 It is not to be confused with timidity or fear, nor with duplicity or dissimulation. It is called auriga virtutum (the charioteer of the virtues); it guides the other virtues by setting rule and measure. It is prudence that immediately guides the judgment of conscience. The prudent man determines and directs his conduct in accordance with this judgment. With the help of this virtue we apply moral principles to particular cases without error and overcome doubts about the good to achieve and the evil to avoid.

1807 Justice is the moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor. Justice toward God is called the "virtue of religion." Justice toward men disposes one to respect the rights of each and to establish in human relationships the harmony that promotes equity with regard to persons and to the common good. The just man, often mentioned in the Sacred Scriptures, is distinguished by habitual right thinking and the uprightness of his conduct toward his neighbor. "You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor."68 "Masters, treat your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven."69

1808 Fortitude is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome obstacles in the moral life. The virtue of fortitude enables one to conquer fear, even fear of death, and to face trials and persecutions. It disposes one even to renounce and sacrifice his life in defense of a just cause. "The Lord is my strength and my song."70 "In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."71

1809 Temperance is the moral virtue that moderates the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the will's mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable. The temperate person directs the sensitive appetites toward what is good and maintains a healthy discretion: "Do not follow your inclination and strength, walking according to the desires of your heart."72 Temperance is often praised in the Old Testament: "Do not follow your base desires, but restrain your appetites."73 In the New Testament it is called "moderation" or "sobriety." We ought "to live sober, upright, and godly lives in this world."74

To live well is nothing other than to love God with all one's heart, with all one's soul and with all one's efforts; from this it comes about that love is kept whole and uncorrupted (through temperance). No

misfortune can disturb it (and this is fortitude). It obeys only [God] (and this is justice), and is careful in discerning things, so as not to be surprised by deceit or trickery (and this is prudence).75

The virtues and grace

1810 Human virtues acquired by education, by deliberate acts and by a perseverance ever-renewed in repeated efforts are purified and elevated by divine grace. With God's help, they forge character and give facility in the practice of the good. The virtuous man is happy to practice them.

1811 It is not easy for man, wounded by sin, to maintain moral balance. Christ's gift of salvation offers us the grace necessary to persevere in the pursuit of the virtues. Everyone should always ask for this grace of light and strength, frequent the sacraments, cooperate with the Holy Spirit, and follow his calls to love what is good and shun evil.

Source: http://www.catholicity.com/catechism/faith-hope-charity.html

Your Challenge

To achieve level 1 or 2, complete 1 & 2 (comic strip and a paragraph). To achieve level 2,3, or 4, complete 1,2, and 3 (comic strip, paragraph, and five paragraph essay).

1. Create a comic strip showing a scene from the movie radio that demonstrates one of the beatitudes or one of the theological virtues, or cardinal virtues.

Make sure to include:

a) At least 4, up to 8 eight panels in the comic strip

b) Dialogue bubbles for conversations in the comics

c) The story written below the comic

d) Detailed pictures of the characters

e) A title for the comic

2. Write a paragraph explaining how the comic demonstrates the beatitude or virtue that you chose.

3. Write a five paragraph essay, arguing that either Radio or coach Jones personify 3 of any combination of the beatitudes, the three theological virtues (faith, hope, charity), or the cardinal virtues (prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance).

There should be an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph. There should be a clear thesis statement. There should be three key points from the movie, supported by examples to illustrate the beatitude or virtues.

Essay Example by Pete Larabie

In the movie Radio, the character Radio personifies the beatitude of “blessed are the clean of heart”, the theological virtue of charity, and the cardinal virtue of prudence. Radio demonstrates that he is someone who is clean of heart, as he is happy to help the football team anyway that he can. He also shows the theological virtue of charity when he gave all of his Christmas presents away. As well, Radio displayed the cardinal virtue of prudence when he was tricked into entering the girls change room, but still took responsibility for his actions. Radio, exemplifies someone who has a pure heart, is charitable, and is prudent.

Radio, who is a young adult with limited academic abilities, shows that he is a simplistic, clean hearted character in several ways. He seems to be shy and keeps to himself, walking by the school each day with his grocery cart full of collectables. As well, throughout the movie; Radio shows several times, that he is good hearted, and tries to do the right thing. He helps out the team at practices, and tries to support the team anyway that he can. When the players are in the change room Radio passes out towels and water to the players. He does these small gestures to help the team with a cheerful disposition and seems to expect nothing in return. Although, he does seem to appreciate it when someone does a nice gesture for him, such as when he is given some food, such as a hamburger, fries and a coke; or pie at the local diner, from Coach Jones. As Radio becomes more comfortable with helping out the team, he seems to feel more and more like a part of the team, and he shows that he likes to give back to the players and the team as well.

Throughout the movie, Radio demonstrates the theological virtue of charity. When he was given Christmas presents from the friends of Coach Jones, Radio gave them all away to his less fortunate neighbours. Thinking of the other members of the community shows that Radio “loves his neighbor as himself for the love of God”i. Radio gives his time freely, and finds joy in helping the players. He is respectful and kind during the movie. These are some of the ways that Radio acts charitably in the movie.

Radio acts prudently after the incident involving him being misled into entering the girls change room. Radio did not realize that the girls in the change room would be put off by seeing him as he was told by Johnny Clay that they wanted to see him, and Radio did not suspect that Johnny would lie to him. Even though he could have told the authorities that Johnny did this, and he would have had every right to do so, he chose not to. By not telling on Johnny, he “disposed practical reason to discern the true good in the given circumstance, and chose the right means of achieving it”ii. By not ratting out Johnny, he earned the respect of coach, and the respect of Johnny. Radio, did not get dragged down into blaming others for what happened. This is evident as when Coach Jones was speaking with Johnny, he noted that Radio didn’t rat him out, and that the other players did. Coach Jones spoke in a serious tone showing his

displeasure at what Johnny did. After the incident, later on in the movie, Johnny seemed to feel bad about it, and got along well with Radio, defending Radio at one point to his father. Clearly, the way that Radio handled the change room incident was “right reason in action”iii, and demonstrated the Cardinal virtue of prudence.

During the movie, Radio shows that he is someone who is “clean of heart”, acts charitably and prudently at times throughout the film. The way that Radio respects the team members and coaching staff show how clean hearted he is. Radio is very charitable with his time, as he volunteers to help out the team any way that he can. It was prudent of Radio to consider the effects of ratting out Johnny for tricking him into going into the girls change room, so that he could get along with everyone. Radio is a character that is simple in many ways, but he also acts clean-hearted, prudently and charitably in a way that sets a good example for others to follow.

Success Criteria for:Radio Beatitude assignment

Met Un-met I noticed . . .

For the comic strip-There are at least 4 panels in the comic strip-There are dialogue bubbles for the conversations-The story is written below the comic-There are detailed pictures-Pictures are coloured-there is a title for the comic strip-The comic strip is neatly done-There are interesting details in the comic stripFor the paragraph explaining the comic strip-There is a paragraph explaining clearly what beatitude or virtue is being explained in the comic strip.-The paragraph relates clearly how the scene in the movie shows the beatitude or virtue.-The spelling, grammar and punctuation are well doneFor the essay-There is an introduction, three body paragraphs and a conclusion.-The introduction states the main thesisAnd three key points(3 virtues and/or beatitudes) and relates them to the

movie.-There is a body paragraph for each of the 3 beatitudes or virtues chosen-The body paragraphs are filled with creative details-The body paragraphs clearly show how each of the virtues or beatitudes were demonstrated in the movie.-there are quotes from the catechism, or articles about the movie inserted into the essay, with endnotes.-There is a conclusion that relates back to the three key points, and sums up the main ideas of the essay.-spelling, grammar and punctuation are well done.-There are many interesting words used.-The sentences flow well together.-There are a variety of transitions for paragraphs (not the same ones all the time)

Introductory Paragraph

General Topic Sentence:

1. Subtopic One: 2. Subtopic Two:3. Subtopic Three:4. (Transition)

First Supporting Paragraph

1. Restate Subtopic One2. Supporting Details or Examples3. (Transition)

Second Supporting Paragraph

1. Restate Subtopic Two2. Supporting Details or Examples3. (Transition)

Third Supporting Paragraph

1. Restate Subtopic Three

2. Supporting Details or Examples3. (Transition)

Closing or Summary Paragraph

1. Synthesis and conclusion of the thesis2. Rephrasing main topic and subtopics.

Write the essay!

Think small; build the full essay gradually.Divide your essay into sections and develop each piece separately and incrementally.

The Introductory Paragraph

The opening paragraph sets the toneIt not only introduces the topic, but where you are going with it (the thesis). If you do a good job in the opening, you will draw your reader into your "experience." Put effort up front, and you will reap rewards.

Write in the active voiceIt is much more powerful. Do that for each sentence in the introductory essay. Unless you are writing a personal narrative, do not use the pronoun "I."

Varying sentence structureReview to avoid the same dull pattern of always starting with the subject of the sentence.

Brainstorm to find the best supporting ideasThe best supporting ideas are the ones about which you have some knowledge. If you do not know about them, you cannot do a good job writing about them. Don't weaken the essay with ineffective argument.

Practice writing introductory paragraphs on various topicsEven if you do not use them, they can be compared with the type of writing you are doing now. It is rewarding to see a pattern of progress.

Supporting Paragraphs

Write a transition to establish the sub-topicEach paragraph has to flow, one to the next.

Write the topic sentenceThe transition can be included in the topic sentence.

Supporting ideas, examples, details must be specific to the sub-topicThe tendency in supporting paragraphs is to put in just about anything.Avoid this: the work you have made above with details and examples will help you keep focused.

Vary sentence structureAvoid repetitious pronouns and listsAvoid beginning sentences the same way (subject + verb + direct object).

The Ending or Summary ParagraphThis is a difficult paragraph to write effectively.You cannot assume that the reader sees your point

Restate the introductory thesis/paragraph with originalityDo not simply copy the first paragraph

Summarize your argument with some degree of authoritythis paragraph should leave your reader with no doubt as to your position or conclusion of logic

Be powerful as this is the last thought that you are leaving with the reader.

Edit and revise your essay

Check your spelling and grammarSubjects and verbs agree, and verb tenses are consistent

Examine your whole essay for logicThought builds and flows? Avoid gaps in logic, or too much detail.

Review individual sentences

Use active verbs to be more descriptiveAvoid passive constructions and the verb "to be"

Use transitional words and phrasesAvoid sentences beginning with pronouns, constructions as "There are....,"Example: "There is a need to proofread all works" becomes "Proofreading is a must."

Be concisethough vary the length and structure of sentences

Ask a knowledgeable friend to review and comment on your essayand to repeat back what you are trying to say. You may be surprised.

i http://www.catholicity.com/catechism/faith-hope-charity.html

ii http://www.catholicity.com/catechism/faith-hope-charity.html

iii http://www.catholicity.com/catechism/faith-hope-charity.html

Success Criteria To insert endnotes, 1. In Microsoft word, move the cursor to the point after the quote where you want the endnote to be.2. Click on References.3. Click on Insert Endnote4. Enter the information about where you got your source. i.e. it might be a website, etc.