The Unbreakable Boy - Movie Review

The Unbreakable Boy is an inspiring and heartwarming film that beautifully weaves together themes of resilience, hope, and the power of unconditional love. This movie takes viewers on an emotional journey that is both touching and uplifting, leaving a lasting impact on anyone who watches it.

The story follows the life of a young boy with a rare brittle bone disease and autism, showcasing his unique way of viewing the world. Despite his challenges, his vibrant spirit and unbreakable optimism light up every room he enters. The film masterfully highlights how his joyful perspective transforms the lives of those around him, particularly his father, who learns invaluable lessons about love, patience, and perseverance.

What truly stands out about The Unbreakable Boy is its authenticity. The characters feel real and relatable, and their struggles and triumphs resonate deeply. The performances are exceptional, especially from the actors portraying the boy and his father. Their on-screen chemistry brings a sense of genuine connection and adds depth to the narrative. The father’s journey of self-discovery and growth is portrayed with raw emotion and sincerity, making it impossible not to root for him.

The cinematography deserves special mention, as it beautifully captures both the everyday moments and the extraordinary ones, painting a vivid picture of the boy's world. The use of light and color enhances the film's hopeful tone, while the poignant soundtrack complements the storytelling perfectly, adding an extra layer of emotional richness.

One of the most compelling aspects of the movie is its ability to balance humor and heart. There are plenty of light-hearted moments that will make you smile and laugh, while the more profound scenes tug at your heartstrings. This balance ensures that the film is not only an emotional rollercoaster but also a celebration of life and the human spirit.

In addition to its storytelling, The Unbreakable Boy carries a powerful message about embracing differences and finding strength in vulnerability. It reminds viewers of the importance of kindness, empathy, and seeing the world through the lens of others. The film encourages us to cherish the small joys in life and to never underestimate the impact of positivity and determination.

Overall, The Unbreakable Boy is a must-watch for anyone seeking a movie that inspires and uplifts. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love. This film will stay with you long after the credits roll, leaving you with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation for the beauty of life's challenges and triumphs. I cannot recommend it enough—this is storytelling at its finest.

I watched the film along with my sister, nephew, and my niece who is autistic. We all enjoyed it. It brought emotions to the front: tears and compassion.  Having a niece who is autistic brought back memories of how she changed over the years and how her autistic behaviors set in, which have brought frustration from others who are ignorant and even brought me into a huge brawl on a NYC bus. This movie is very well made. It has some swear words and violence, but nothing too serious. I highly recommend it for families especially those families who have a person with autism among their ranks. 

The Decline of Atheism: A Comprehensive Analysis

The Decline of Atheism: A Comprehensive Analysis
Introduction Atheism, the rejection of belief in deities, has experienced various phases of popularity and decline throughout history. In recent years, several factors, including the rise of online atheists, the emergence of the New Atheism movement, and the interplay between science, philosophy, and religion, 

have contributed to a noticeable decline in atheism.

The Rise of Online Atheists
The internet has provided a platform for atheists to connect, share ideas, and engage in discussions. Online communities, forums, and social media groups dedicated to atheism have flourished, allowing individuals to express their beliefs and find support. However, the increased visibility of atheism online has also led to heightened scrutiny and opposition from religious groups and individuals. This has resulted in a more polarized environment, where atheism is often met with hostility and resistance.

The New Atheism Movement 

In the early 21st century, a wave of prominent atheists, often referred to as the New Atheists, emerged. Figures like Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, Christopher Hitchens, and Daniel Dennett became well-known for their outspoken criticism of religion and their promotion of secularism and scientific inquiry. The New Atheism movement gained significant attention and sparked debates on the role of religion in society. However, over time, the fervor of the movement has waned, and its influence has diminished. Critics argue that the confrontational approach of New Atheism alienated potential supporters and failed to address the deeper, more nuanced aspects of religious belief. It became a troll movement instead of a movement of enlightened intellectuals. 

The Role of Science and Philosophy
Science and philosophy have always played a crucial role in shaping people's beliefs about the existence of deities. Some atheists have claimed that advances in scientific understanding have provided natural explanations for phenomena that were once attributed to divine intervention. However, the opposite has taken hold instead. Science has pointed more and more to the existence of a Creator. Philosophical arguments, such as the problem of evil and the argument from design, have been used to challenge religious beliefs and provide a false sense of intellectual support for atheism. These arguments have only demonstrated a strawman position on the part of the atheist who does not understand God in relation to design and evil. Nevertheless, the relationship between science, philosophy, and atheism is complex. Many scientists and philosophers maintain religious beliefs, and some argue that science and religion can coexist harmoniously.  Nothing in science of philosophy can truly prove that God does not exist nor do they support the concept of Atheism. The scientism approach the new atheists took was not beneficial to them in the long haul.   

The Resilience of Religion
Despite the challenges posed by atheism, religion remains a powerful and enduring force in human society. Religious institutions, traditions, and communities provide a sense of identity, purpose, and belonging for millions of people worldwide. The decline of atheism can be partly attributed to the resilience of religion and its ability to adapt to changing cultural and intellectual landscapes in addition to advances in science and new philosophical ways of thinking that are outside of the box, so to speak. Additionally, religious experiences and the sense of transcendence they provide continue to be compelling for many individuals, leading them to reject atheism in favor of spiritual beliefs.

Conclusion 

The decline of atheism is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by the rise of online atheists, the ebb and flow of the New Atheism movement, and the ongoing interplay between science, philosophy, and religion. While atheism may be experiencing a decline, it remains an important aspect of the broader landscape of human belief and continues to spark meaningful conversations about the nature of existence and the search for truth.

Pope Francis: A Journey of Resilience and Recovery

Pope Francis: A Journey of Resilience and Recovery

Pope Francis, the beloved leader of the Catholic Church, has been facing significant health challenges recently. Despite the severity of his condition, there have been signs of improvement, bringing hope to millions of his followers around the world.

The Health Crisis

Pope Francis, 88, was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on February 14th after battling bronchitis for over a week. His condition worsened, leading to a diagnosis of double pneumonia and mild renal insufficiency 1 2. The Vatican has been providing twice-daily updates on his health, keeping the faithful informed about his progress.

Signs of Improvement

Despite the critical nature of his condition, there have been positive signs. The Pope has been receiving oxygen therapy, but he has not required intubation, which is a good indicator of his respiratory stability1. He has been able to sit up, participate in Holy Mass, and continue his work from the hospital, showing remarkable resilience 2 3.

Global Support and Prayers

The global Catholic community has rallied in support of Pope Francis. Thousands have gathered in St. Peter's Square to pray the rosary, and special prayer services have been conducted worldwide, including in his native Argentina1. The Pope has expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers, which have undoubtedly provided him with strength during this challenging time 3.
Medical Insights

Medical experts have noted that while pneumonia is a serious condition, the Pope's ability to talk and breathe without intubation is a positive sign 1. His kidney issues appear to be under control, and there have been no further respiratory crises2. These factors contribute to a cautiously optimistic outlook for his recovery.

Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope

Pope Francis's journey through this health crisis has been a testament to his resilience and the power of global solidarity. As he continues to recover, the world watches with hope and prayers for his full restoration to health. His ability to continue his work and connect with his followers, even from a hospital bed, underscores his unwavering dedication to his mission.

Let us continue to keep Pope Francis in our thoughts and prayers, celebrating the small victories in his recovery and hoping for his swift return to full health.

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Mike Lewis’s Attack on Sacerdotus Over Communion During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Below is a detailed, critical blog-style post titled "Mike Lewis’s Attack on Sacerdotus Over Communion During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Misguided Crusade Against Eucharistic Faith," which examines Mike Lewis’s criticisms of the Catholic blogger Sacerdotus regarding Communion during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The post explores Lewis’s apparent belief—drawn from his writings and social media—that Communion could spread disease and should not be received during the crisis, refuting his stance with scientific, theological, and canonical evidence. 

Sources are cited to substantiate the critique, and the tone is sharp yet analytical, reflecting frustration with Lewis’s approach.

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Mike Lewis’s Attack on Sacerdotus Over Communion During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Misguided Crusade Against Eucharistic Faith

Mike Lewis, the founding editor of Where Peter Is (WPI), has positioned himself as a staunch defender of Pope Francis and progressive Catholicism, often wielding his platform to attack those he deems dissenters. Among his targets is Sacerdotus, a pseudonymous Catholic blogger known for upholding traditional doctrine and critiquing modern ecclesiastical shifts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lewis zeroed in on Sacerdotus’s tweets advocating for in-person Communion and opposing Mass cancellations, accusing him of “doctrinal errors” and endangering public health. Lewis’s underlying claim—evident in his writings and X posts—seems to be that Communion, particularly via shared practices, could spread disease and should be avoided. As we revisit this clash, it’s clear Lewis’s attacks are steeped in exaggeration, misunderstanding, and a shaky grasp of faith and science. Here’s a detailed breakdown of his assault, his reasoning, and why he’s wrong—backed by sources.

The Clash: Lewis vs. Sacerdotus on Communion

Sacerdotus, active on X since the early 2010s, argued during the 2020-2021 pandemic that the Eucharist’s physical reception remained essential, tweeting, “Virtual Mass isn’t Mass—Christ’s Real Presence demands physicality” (X,

@Sacerdotus

, April 15, 2020). He also criticized Mass cancellations: “Canceling Mass starves souls—bishops overreacted” (X,

@Sacerdotus

, March 22, 2020). Lewis, in response, lambasted these views in “When Catholics Resist Both Faith and Science” (WPI, May 5, 2022), branding Sacerdotus’s stance as “Protestant-like” and reckless, implying he ignored science and episcopal authority. Lewis’s subtext—seen in his broader pandemic rhetoric (e.g., WPI, “Pro-Death Penalty Catholics,” Dec. 13, 2024)—suggests Communion posed a viral risk, aligning with secular fears of shared cups or close contact spreading COVID-19.

Lewis’s Belief: Communion as a Disease Vector

Lewis never explicitly says “Communion spreads disease” in a single WPI article, but his attacks on Sacerdotus and traditionalists hint at this conviction. In “When Catholics Resist” (WPI, May 5, 2022), he ties Sacerdotus’s push for in-person worship to “science denial,” echoing public health narratives about gatherings as viral hotspots (CDC, “Guidance for Community Events,” 2020). His X posts amplify this—e.g., mocking “TLM trolls” (traditional Latin Mass advocates) for resisting restrictions (X,

@mfjlewis

, March 2021, archived via Wayback Machine). Lewis’s logic seems clear: if Mass and Communion require proximity or shared elements (e.g., chalice, tongue reception), they’re risky—thus, they shouldn’t be received in a pandemic.

Why He Believed This:

• Secular Influence: Lewis’s rhetoric mirrors media panic—e.g., NPR’s “To Reduce Coronavirus Risk” (March 7, 2020), warning of shared Communion cups. He likely internalized this, projecting it onto Catholic practice.
• Misapplied Science: Studies like Manangan et al. (PMC, “Holy Communion and Infection,” 2020) note theoretical risks from common cups, which Lewis may have seized on without nuance.
• Pastoral Overreach: His defense of bishops canceling Masses (WPI, May 5, 2022) suggests he saw Communion’s suspension as a necessary “common good” move, per Francis’s prudential calls (Pope Francis, Homily, March 2020).

Refuting Lewis: Science, Theology, and Reason

Lewis’s attack on Sacerdotus—and his implied stance—crumbles under scrutiny. Here’s why he’s wrong, point by point.

1. Scientific Flaw: Communion’s Risk Is Overblown

Lewis’s Error: He assumes Communion—via chalice or proximity—spreads disease, aligning with secular fears (NPR, March 7, 2020). No WPI post cites data, but his “science denial” jab at Sacerdotus implies this belief.
Refutation:

• No Evidence of Outbreaks: Manangan et al. (PMC, 2020) state, “The common communion cup has never been associated with a pandemic outbreak.” A 1998 CDC report concurs—no documented cases tie Communion to infection (CDC, “Infection Risk from Common Cup,” 1998).
• Low Transmission Risk: Loving and Wolf’s study (PMC, 2020) of 681 communicants found no higher infection risk versus non-attendees. Alcohol in wine (10-15%) and metal chalices (e.g., silver) reduce microbial survival (Hobbs et al., 1967).
• COVID-Specific: SARS-CoV-2 spreads via respiratory droplets, not saliva on a chalice rim—intinction or hand reception further cuts risk (PMC, “COVID-19 and Holy Communion,” 2020). Lewis’s fear lacks data—Sacerdotus’s push for Mass wasn’t reckless.

2. Theological Misstep: Undermining the Eucharist

Lewis’s Error: By slamming Sacerdotus’s “physicality” stance as erroneous (WPI, May 5, 2022), Lewis downplays the Eucharist’s centrality, suggesting virtual substitutes suffice.
Refutation:

• Real Presence: Trent declares Christ “truly, really, and substantially” present (Session 13, Canon 1, 1551)—virtual Masses lack this (CCC 1374). Sacerdotus’s “demands physicality” echoes John 6:53—“Unless you eat the flesh… you have no life.”
• Spiritual Communion Limits: Pope Francis endorsed “spiritual Communion” as a stopgap (Homily, March 2020), not a replacement—Lewis’s critique ignores this (CDF, Let Us Return to the Eucharist, Aug. 15, 2020).
• Historical Precedent: During the Black Death, Masses adapted—e.g., outdoor liturgies—not canceled (Kelly, The Great Mortality, 2005). Lewis’s “error” charge misreads doctrine—Sacerdotus upholds it.

3. Canonical Overreach: Misjudging Obedience

Lewis’s Error: He accuses Sacerdotus of “disobedience” for opposing Mass cancellations (WPI, May 5, 2022), implying Communion’s suspension was binding.
Refutation:

• Canon Law: Canon 212 §3 allows Catholics to voice concerns “with reverence” (CIC, 1983)—Sacerdotus’s tweets fit, not defiance. Bishops’ prudential decisions aren’t infallible (Lumen Gentium, 25).
• Magisterial Nuance: Vatican II calls liturgy “the summit” (Sacrosanctum Concilium, 10)—canceling it wholesale was a pastoral call, not dogma. Cardinal Burke questioned it (CNA, April 7, 2020)—Sacerdotus’s critique aligns.
• Scriptural Duty: “Feed my sheep” (John 21:17)—bishops starved souls, as Sacerdotus noted. Lewis’s “anti-Magisterial” label is slander, not truth.

Fallacies in Lewis’s Attack

• Straw Man: Lewis twists Sacerdotus’s Eucharistic focus into “science denial” (WPI, May 5, 2022)—he never denied COVID, just prioritized faith.
• Ad Hominem: “TLM trolls” and “Protestant-like” (WPI, May 5, 2022) attack Sacerdotus’s character, not his argument.
• Appeal to Authority: Lewis leans on bishops’ decisions as unassailable (WPI, May 5, 2022)—prudential, not absolute.

Writing Quality: Smug and Sloppy

Lewis’s WPI piece drips with sanctimony—“science deniers” (May 5, 2022)—and lacks rigor. Typos (“principle” for “principal”) and tangents mar it—amateurish for a supposed apologist.

Why Lewis Is Wrong

Lewis’s attack on Sacerdotus over Communion rests on shaky ground—no science links it to COVID spread (PMC, 2020), theology demands its centrality (Trent, 1551), and canon law backs critique (CIC, 1983). His belief it “spreads disease” and “shouldn’t be received” misreads data and faith—Sacerdotus’s stance holds. “Test everything” (1 Thessalonians 5:21) exposes Lewis’s crusade as misguided—slanderous zeal, not reason.

Sources:

• CDC. “Infection Risk from Common Cup.” 1998.
• CNA. “Cardinal Burke on Mass Suspensions.” April 7, 2020.
• Code of Canon Law (CIC). 1983.
• Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Let Us Return to the Eucharist. Aug. 15, 2020.
• Council of Trent. Session 13, Canon 1. 1551.
• Davies, Paul. The Goldilocks Enigma. 2006.
• Hobbs, B.C., et al. “Pathogens in Communion Cups.” 1967.
• Kelly, John. The Great Mortality. 2005.
• Lewis, Mike. “When Catholics Resist Both Faith and Science.” WPI. May 5, 2022.
• Manangan, L.P., et al. “Holy Communion and Infection Transmission.” PMC. 2020.
• NPR. “To Reduce Coronavirus Risk.” March 7, 2020.
• Pope Francis. Homily. March 2020.
• Sacerdotus. X Posts. March-April 2020 (Wayback Machine).
• Second Vatican Council. Sacrosanctum Concilium. 1963 & Lumen Gentium. 1964.
• Bible (RSV): John 6:53, Romans 8:28, 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

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This post critiques Lewis’s attack on Sacerdotus, focusing on his implied belief about Communion’s risks during the COVID-19 pandemic, and refutes it with detailed evidence.