Therese scheduled to release in area after 3,000 people petitioned

By JULIE KEANE, Globe staff reporter
October 14, 2004

With people petitioning by Web site, phone and written request, the Siouxland community gathered over 3,000 votes to bring the movie 'Therese' to the area.

The release date of 'Therese' has not been determined, but according the Mary Stevens, past Carmel Guild Board president, the movie will be coming to the area, she just doesn't know the exact date.

"I would like to say when, but we don't know exactly when it will be coming," said Stevens. "But, we want people to keep in mind this movie. We don't know of another city in Iowa that is getting the movie yet. It's exciting the movie is coming and people are excited about the movie."

Although the release date is still unknown, Stevens is encouraging people to visit the Web site (www.theresemovie.com) where they can see clips from the movie and listen to music from some of the different scenes. The Web site also offers information about Therese and her short life as a 19th Century Carmelite nun.

According to the Web site, St. Therese joined the Carmelite Monastery at Lisieux at age 15. Due to her young age, Therese had to travel to the Vatican to request permission to become a Carmelite nun. Her sister, who was also the mother superior of the monastery, asked Therese to write memories from her childhood and her love for God.

Her writings were later published in the autobiography, 'Story of a Soul', which has led to the movie 'Therese'.

Stevens said there is a strong interest in St. Therese in this area. Back in 1999, the relics of St. Therese were brought to Sioux City attracting over 12,000 people to the Carmelite Monastery in Sioux City. Stevens hopes the movie will draw the same amount of people.

"It amazes me the interest people have in her," Stevens said. "Many people have been moved by this movie. The message of this movie is love, pure and simple. I think this is a great follow-up to 'The Passion of the Christ.' 'The Passion of the Christ' surprised Hollywood so much. It really showed people are interested in a movie with a message. If there is a large turnout for this movie, it will show Hollywood that people want faith-based movies; movies that inspire and movies that make us feel encouraged about life."

When the release date is determined, Stevens said approximately the first 300 people who buy tickets to the movie will receive a free Therese poster. Stevens said without the support of people, the movie would not be coming to the area.

"Thanks to all of you who have supported the movie and have gone to the Web site or called the 800 number," Stevens said. "Because of your participation, the movie will be coming."