Finding God in the Dark:
A Contemplative Experience Through Film
What is it?
Through the medium of films we are offered an opportunity to enter into a contemplative experience. These films will help us explore the themes of God's constant compassionate mercy and deep love for us. And the knowledge that no matter what, God's love for us remains despite our humanity and even more so when we have not experienced love or feel we have failed.
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Various series comprised of three films each will be offered throughout the year. Each series will draw from the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola where he invites us to contemplate using the creative energies of our imagination. To learn more about the themes of each of the four weeks of the Exercises, please click here.
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This program is open to all regardless of their experience with Ignatian spirituality or contemplation. This format is offered for those wishing to experience all four weeks of the Spiritual Exercises. However, one does not need to participate in all of the series or all of the films to benefit from the experience. All are invited to participate in whatever manner works best for them.
How will this work?
Each person, in their own time and in the comfort of their own home, will watch the film guided by reflective prompts sent to them prior to the meeting date. A facilitated meeting on the dates listed, will allow participants to explore the themes of the featured films through group discussion and personal sharing.
Where can I view the featured films?
You can watch through free and paid streaming services like YouTube, Netflix or HBO, or by renting through platforms like Amazon Prime, AppleTV+, etc. Click on each film to obtain more information, including where you can find them.
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Cost?
$25 for a 3-film series or $10 for each film
Movies cannot be mixed and matched between series'.
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What day/time?
Online via Zoom
Weekday evenings for an hour (see dates/time to the right)​
2025-2026 DATES​
Click on each movie title for information from IMDb about the film, trailers, ratings, and streaming options.
Series 1 - Tuesdays, 7:00-8:00 pm PST
October 14, 2025: FILMS COMING SOON
October 21:
October 28:
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Series 2 - Tuesdays, 7:00-8:00 pm PST
January 15, 2026: FILMS COMING SOON
January 22:
January 29:
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Series 3 - Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:00 pm PST
April 9, 2026: FILMS COMING SOON
April 16:
April 23:
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Series 4 - Tuesdays, 7:00-8:00 pm PST
July 8, 2026: FILMS COMING SOON
July 15:
July 22:
Cancellation & Refunds
Should you need to cancel, please email office@loyolainstitute.org. We are happy to offer a refund only until materials are sent out via email (generally about one to two weeks prior to the start of a film or series).