Attention “Quick Bible Study” loyal readers: Our “regular programming” will resume next week with Vol. 237. Today, we have a special interview with Jonathan Roumie, best known for playing Jesus on the popular biblically-based series “The Chosen.”
This interview is about a new film, “Heart of a Servant” — The Father Flanagan Story — premiering on Tuesday, Oct. 8, for one night only in select theaters. Jonathan serves as Executive Producer and narrates the extraordinary and meaningful true story about Father Flanagan, a legendary Catholic priest. In 1917, Flanagan overcame tremendous obstacles, and in Omaha, Nebraska, he established Boys Town to raise and empower impoverished orphans.
Jonathan talks about “Heart of a Servant” and why he was drawn to Fr. Flanagan’s life story, most importantly, why the film's message will resonate with audiences of all faiths or those without faith. He also discusses The Chosen’s upcoming crucifixion scenes.
Myra Kahn Adams: Jonathan, thank you for taking the time from your busy acting schedule filming “The Chosen” Season 6. Many Townhall readers are big fans of the series. But today, we are discussing “Heart of a Servant,” which opens on Tuesday. Due to “The Chosen’s” success, you are inundated with film opportunities. Therefore, what about “Heart of a Servant” motivated you to be Executive Producer and narrate this movie about an Irish-born priest who lived between 1886 and 1948?
Jonathan Roumie: Essentially, I found his story so compelling that it was one I could not ignore. I was unfamiliar with Father Flanagan, but when I learned about what he did on behalf of defenseless children who, through no fault of their own, had endured some of the most terribly unfortunate circumstances in their young lives at that time in history, how he cared for them, I had to become involved with this project. Father Flanagan compelled those around him and, ultimately, society at large to see these most vulnerable children in the way that Christ would see them. He believed there was “No such thing as a bad boy” and raised these young men as such and subsequently changed their lives.
MA: How did Fr. Flanagan’s story and struggles impact you while playing Jesus?
JR: Fr. Flanagan’s life was one of difficulty and challenges (especially regarding his health struggles from the time he was born) and so played out as the story of a man who persisted through those personal sufferings while doing God’s will. We should remember that this is the narrative of so many Saints and that he would continue his mission until the Lord brought him home. Something that I find inspiring is an opportunity to offer up my own suffering while on a mission.
MA: Was Fr. Flanagan “chosen” to establish Boys Town in 1917?
JR: I see what you did there. Heh-eh. I believe he was ordained and sent to America (and eventually other parts of the world: Japan, Korea, Germany & Austria) for that reason.
MA: Many Townhall readers are not Catholic. So why should non-Catholics visit a theatre on Tuesday, Oct 8, to see “Heart of a Servant?” Moreover, why should Catholics see it or care about Fr. Flanagan? Do you think the movie will resonate differently with Catholics versus non-Catholics?
JR: This movie will resonate with anyone who cares not only for children or the poor but also those who believe in social justice, those who despise racism, and those who understand how the impact of having Jesus in one’s life is that undeniable factor that can bring people out of the pit of despair and into the light of life — which God wants most deeply for us.
For Catholics, the notion that this man, by living out the strongest and most radical tenets of his faith (caring for the poor and defenseless, at the expense of himself), is now on the road to sainthood should resonate in a way it does not with others. He has set for us an earthly example of what it means to walk with Jesus and do His will. To live out his spirituality not just in word but in deed, to the very end.
MA: Today, Boys Town still exists in Omaha, Nebraska, and has expanded its mission. Have you visited what Fr. Flanagan founded?
JR: I have indeed visited Boys Town, NE, just last month in fact, and while there, I was deeply humbled to receive honorary “citizenship” as a member of Boys Town. The mission of Boys Town continues to this day, serving both boys and girls, especially those who are experiencing mental health crises and academic and behavioral challenges. Over 3 million children and families were impacted by programs at Boys Town in 2023 alone. God is still using Father Flanagan and his mission today; praise be!
MA: Switching gears for a moment. As the actor playing Jesus in “The Chosen,” how are you mentally and physically preparing for the crucifixion scenes?
JR: During the first four seasons of the show, I hadn’t allowed myself to consider the storylines that far into the future. There was enough to deal with in the present. As a Catholic Christian, meditation on Jesus’ Passion and crucifixion is a necessary aspect of the practice of our faith through devotion to the daily/weekly mass.
With our season five storyline set amidst the backdrop of Holy Week, the inclusion of the crucifixion into my consciousness and (as a character) Jesus’ thought process has been wholly unavoidable. We’re nearing the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
Physically speaking, as we get closer to filming season six, I’m preparing to enter into periods of fasting (and prayer), more rigorous training, and the exploration of stricter ascetic practices, God willing. Throughout, I pray I have the strength to continue to submit myself, my needs and my concerns to the Lord in request for guidance on everything that relates to playing Our Savior. I would also kindly ask your readers for their prayers for God’s guidance and Will for me as we conclude this chapter of The Chosen.
MA: Since this interview is a special break from my weekly Sunday Bible study, will you share your favorite verses from the Old and New Testaments?
JR: It changes constantly. I’ve been recently reading Ben Sira and am fascinated by some of his comparisons on death and foolishness, like this in Ch. 22:11 - “Weep over the dead, for their light has gone out, weep over the fool for his sense has left him. Weep less bitterly over the dead, for they are at rest; worse than death is the life of a fool.” Wow. He did not hold back on foolishness, lol.
I always look to the Psalms, however, for comfort and thanksgiving. Psalm 102 is one of my favorites. Psalm 23 is, of course, legendary, and for good reason.
New Testament - many verses stick with me: John 6:47, 11:25, Matthew 4:5, 11:28.
MA: Jonathan, on behalf of Townhall, thank you for this interview.
JR: My pleasure! Thanks for having me (smile face).
Myra Kahn Adams is a conservative political and religious writer with numerous national credits. Her book, "Bible Study For Those Who Don't Read The Bible," reprints the first 56 volumes of this popular study. "Part 2,” with the same title, reprints Vols. 57-113. Order it here.
She is also the Executive Director of the National Shroud of Turin Exhibit, dedicated to building a permanent Shroud of Turin exhibit in Washington, D.C. The National Shroud of Turin Exhibit recently hosted a four-day exhibit (with a VIP guest) at the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, IN. Contact: MyraAdams01@gmail.com
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