Newman Center to host one-man play

A one-man play will help to celebrate the Year of the Priest today.

The Newman Catholic Center will be presenting “Vianney” to celebrate the Year of the Priest by honoring a historic catholic figure.

John Titus, chaplain of the Newman Catholic Center, explained that “Vianney” is the story of St. John Vianney, a 19th century French priest and patron saint of parish priests.

After attacks on the Catholic Church during the French Revolution, St. Vianney was determined to save the souls of all the villagers of Ars, France.

St. Vianney spent 16 hours a day in a cramped confessional, providing counsel to thousands of pilgrims who waited in line for days, Titus said.

The production of Vianney is part of the Catholic Church’s worldwide celebration of the Year of the Priest. This celebration is meant to revive interest in and promote an understanding of the role of priests, according to a press release for the performance.

As part of the Year of the Priest, Pope Benedict XVI has declared St. Vianney the model of all priests in the world.

“Vianney” will be performed by Leonardo Defilippis, who depicts St. Vianney on stage while a projector displays scenes behind him.

“I find the character of John Vianney extremely endearing,” Defilippis said. “There is an urgency in him that is extraordinarily compelling and convicting.”

Titus said the play make audience members see prayer in a different way.

“You can’t experience this drama and not come away with a greater insight into the power of prayer,” Titus said.

Titus also explained that Vianney is not just for students who are Catholic or religious. He said that the production is meant to inspire anyone who sees it.

“It’s an important story about the power of an individual affecting and impacting the lives of others,” Titus said.

“Vianney” is recommended for audience members 9-years-old and older. Admission is free, though donations are welcome.

All donations support the St. Hedwig Haus of Hospitality in Charleston, a Catholic worker house for women and children.

The live theatrical one-man drama Vianney will be performed at 7 p.m. today in the St. Philip Neri Chapel of the Newman Catholic Center at 500 Roosevelt Ave. in Charleston.

The play is sponsored by the EIU Knights of Columbus, St. Charles Knights of Columbus and the Monsignor Moriarty Circle of Columbian Squires.

Tim Deters can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].