September ushers in waves of celebrations across much of Latin America as nine countries within the hemisphere celebrate their independence.

The film is sprawling and picturesque. And, as scripted by Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, Lauren Hynek and Elizabeth Martin, it salutes courage, solidarity and devotion to family while also showcasing the conversion of one of its villains.

He rarely expressed doubts about anything; but he displayed a great sensitivity to the doubts and confusions of those who had the humility to confess that they were at sea.

Like the Good Thief, you and I can “steal” heaven. It involves returning to the practice of our faith, going to church, receiving the sacraments, reading Scripture, and talking to God throughout the day in formal or informal prayers.

Father Arnold and Casey Buckstaff, principal of St. John the Evangelist School, foster an environment that earned the school honors for its Catholic identity from the National Catholic Educational Association last spring.