Set in the barracks of the WWII concentration camp at Auschwitz, the story is told of a group of Jewish prisoners who decide to put God on trial.  Facing personal and racial annihilation, they ask the question of whether God has breached His covenant with His people.  Unwaveringly confronting some of the most difficult questions of life and faith, these men- rabbis, scholars, glove makers and traitors- take us on a painful journey into our own beliefs.

Inspired by the writing of Elie Wiesel (book by the same name), the TV movie “God On Trial” captures what can rarely be done on film.  The film makers do not waver in asking the most difficult questions, avoiding pat answers or sentimental escapes.  Questions that so often remain mere theoreticals for casual consideration gain power and terror in a context that gives their answers so much importance.

I find myself having little more to say about this film except that you must watch it.  You must watch it with your families and your faith communities.  You must do so with a commitment to let the questions settle into your heart, resisting dismissive “easy” answers.  It will not be easy, but it is essential.  Please consider ordering the DVD, which releases this week.