Radio Main Characters Coach Jones (played by Ed Harris)
Coach Jones is a leader, seasoned educator and sports coach at Hanna High. He has a family
consisting of a wife and teenage daughter. He is well respected in the community for his
professional opinion and expertise in sports. In the past, no one questioned Coach Jones'
judgement, until now.
Radio (played by Cuba Gooding Jr.)
Radio is a teenage boy with special education needs. At present, he does not attend highschool as
his age appropriate peers do. He is fully grown. He appears to be shy, and most often keeps to
himself. He can communicate using basic language but cannot read or write. Prior to meeting
Coach Jones, he is never shown with peers, or interacting with other people besides his mother.
Radio also plays the role of a leader but in a different respect as compared to Coach Jones.
Mrs. Linda Jones (played by Debra Winger)
Mrs. Jones plays the traditionally historical role of the happy housemaker. She is always
available to cater to the needs of Coach Jones when he arrives home from practice or other
outings. She is shown completing various domestic activities such as cooking, and sewing. She is
the primary careprovider for their teenage daughter. Mrs. Jones supports the activities of Coach
Jones, but from time to time can be the voice of reason.
Principal Daniels Principal Daniels is the Principal of Hanna Highschool. She is a middle age
black woman in the southern states. The fact that she is a racial minority and female in this
position is unique to the area of the United States and the time period the movie was framed in.
Principal Daniels is level headed. She takes her position very seriously. She has a well
established relationship with Coach Jones. Mrs. Daniels is initially somewhat fearful of the
presence of students with special educational needs in the school. Principal Daniels plays the
leadership role as the head of the highschool.
Honeycutt Honeycutt is Coach Jones' coaching partner. Together, they run the athletics
department of Hanna High. Honeycutt is the assistant coach of the football team, and the head
coach of the basketball team. Honeycutt has a mild manner about him, and respects Coach Jones'
judgement. He frequently carries out the requests of Coach Jones without question. Although
Honeycutt is not the head of the athletic department, he plays a leadership role in that students
look up to him in the coaching realm he fulfills throughout the storyline.
Frank Clay Frank Clay is the Bank Manager of the bank in Anderson. He is also the father of
Johnny Clay, star athlete of Hanna High. Frank is shown mostly throughout the movie as a
spectator at the sporting events held by the school. He can be opinionated in questioning the
coaching decisions of Coach Jones and Honeycutt during and after sporting events at Hanna
Highschool. Frank holds a prestigious position in the community as Bank Manager. This position
is associated with the management of money, which relates to prestige and power. He is revered
by many folk of the community as they would have to approach him with personal requests for
money throughout their lifetimes. Therefore, any relationship with Frank must stay positive or
his connection with money at the bank could come back and haunt an individual for a long time.
Mary Helen Mary Helen is the daughter of Coach Jones. She is a typical teenage girl who also is
a cheerleader for Hanna High. She seems well adjusted, and is an only child. She has some
friends and is social with them. She does not have a great relationship with her father. She rarely
sees him, and he is not in touch with what is happening in her life. Despite the fact that Mary
Helen is a cheerleader at the same sporting events that her father coaches at, she does not spend
much time with him. Her role in the plot of the story is to show that even though Coach Jones is
reknown for his contributions to Hanna High, he has one area of his life that is not perfect; his
relationship with his daughter.
Mrs. Kennedy Mrs. Kennedy is Radio's mother. She is a black, middle aged widow working
many hours as a nurse to support Radio and herself. She lives in a small, run down area of the
community. Mrs. Kennedy toils in life to make ends meet. She is compassionate towards Radio
because of his condition, and does much to protect him. She shows appreciation for Coach Jones'
interest in Radio as being sincere and well meaning.
Johnny Clay Johnny Clay is the highschool jock or sports allstar. He has a cocky attitude that
depicts a sense of entitlement. He is the leader of the football and basketball teams. His fellow
team members look up to him for leadership and example. They follow him. He is attempting to
impress sports scouts throughout the film to earn himself a scholarship to a good university. He
is ruthless to achieve his own goals. He mistreats Radio throughout the movie.
Radio Plot Summary
The first scene of the movie introduces us to Radio. He is depicted as being poor. He is shown
pushing around a shopping cart walking around the town, entertaining himself. His actions
imply that he may have special needs. Other people in the community avoid him. He enjoys
listening to the radio. A significant point in this scene is that the intolerance of people towards
Radio is shown
In the second scene, we are introduced to Coach Jones. He is a prominent high school football
coach at Hanna High school. He is well liked, and respected throughout the community. He has
a solid reputation for making good decisions, and has past football championships to support
his reputation.
Next, the football team is practicing. There is an emphasis on teamwork. Radio watches the
team from afar behind a fence.
The focus changes to the Coach returning to his own home. We are introduced to his wife Linda,
and daughter Mary Helen. The coach uses a phrase with his wife and daughter that said "You
work hard, play hard, and then succeed." This seemed to be a life motto that he was discussing
with them. The fact that the Coach doesn't relate well to his daughter Mary Helen is shared with
the audience.
Some discrimination on the part of the football players was shown towards Radio. The Coach
finds his players tormenting Radio. They locked him in a shed with his hands and mouth bound
by tape. The door of the shed was shut, with all lights off. The players proceeded to throw
footballs against the outside of the shed door. These actions terrified Radio, who had very little
communication skills.
Eventually when the Coach realized what was happening, he released Radio, and tried to soothe
him. Coach Jones asked the group for an explanation. They were punished for their actions. It
was at this point in the movie that the Coach empathized with Radio and began to establish a
relationship with him.
Coach Jones meets Radio and apologizes for what happened to him. The Coach invited Radio to
come to the football practice. When the Coach returns home that evening, his wife questions his
priorities in terms of the amount of time that he spends with the football team, and his attention
towards his daughter Mary Helen. We are further introduced to the Coach's daughter Mary
Helen. She is a cheerleader at Hanna High school, and cheers when her father's football team
plays.
Scene 3 shows Coach Jones using his expertise and leading his team to victory in a football
game. Radio watches him, and the Coach notices him as well. As a ritual after each football
game, the locals gathered at the barbershop to discuss how the game went. Everyone puts in
their two cents. Some of these people are peers of the Coach, some are townsfolk, and others are
parents of the football players. One of the people at the barbershop asks the Coach about his
plan to win, and he chooses not to share it.
We are finally introduced directly to Radio. The Coach approaches him at the fence after a
football game and offers Radio water. Following that, he invited Radio to come into the office
and have some hamburgers and coke. After entering the office, Radio sees the radio on the
counter and is immediately drawn to it.
After they are finished their meal, Coach Jones drives Radio home. He is friendly to him, and
works on establishing a relationship with him. When they arrive at Radio's house, we meet Mrs.
Kennedy, Radio's mother. Coach Jones introduces himself and explains why he gave Radio a
ride.
We learn that Mrs. Kennedy is a supportive, single mother. She is a nurse and has to work long
hours. As a result, Radio doesn't have as much supervision as necessary. Her husband has
passed away, and her older son Walter does not live at home. Mrs. Kennedy explains Radio's
condition to the Coach. We later find out that Mrs. Kennedy has a heart condition.
Coach Jones is shown gearing up the team for upcoming games. He introduces Radio to the
team as their mascot. He explains to the players his role and tells them that they're not going to
have a problem with that. Throughout the practice, some of the team members tease Radio, and
make fun of him.
The scene moves on to the next football game for the team. Radio accidentally participates in the
game. The fans in the stands start to question why Radio is there.
By participating in the team situation, Radio feels pride, and includes him in a social setting.
Some comments are shared with Coach Jones regarding Radio participating in the football team
events. The Coach speaks to Mrs. Kennedy to see if she minds if Radio goes on a trip with the
team. In this discussion, she expresses her concern about the authorities, and "only needing 1
excuse to put him away." Coach Jones feels empathy for her and Radio.
We meet Principal Daniels. She is a black, female principal who seems very strong in her role.
She speaks to Coach Jones at school about concerns regarding Radio going with them on the
trip. She questions the Coach's motives, and asks if Radio is a 'glorified mascot'. She talks to
Coach Jones about concerns she has about 'being around a mentally challenged boy'. Principal
Daniels says "Folks don't understand yet; but they'll catch on."
Eventually after their discussion, the Coach changes his mind about Radio attending the trip. He
told Radio that he couldn't come, and the scene ends with Radio standing in the pouring rain as
the football team bus pulls away. Radio stands in the rain listening to the radio and acting out
the plays as he hears them called out.
This scene shows Coach Jones and Radio sitting in a cafe. They are becoming friendlier. The
Coach is viewing Radio as a human being, and is concerned about what will happen to him after
the football season ends.
We are shown that people still are questioning Radio being around. He has given away plays,
caused the team to have trouble (unsportsmanlike conduct penalties). Despite this unplanned
event, the team does turn around the score and takes a win over 'Westside', their opponent.
After the game, Coach Jones thanks the team members by giving them an inspirational talk. He
gives Radio the game ball.
Scene 9 is set in the Barbershop setting. Coach Jones is sharing with his friends the summary of
the game. He expresses that he is proud of his boys. One man questions the Coach's ability and
suggests that the Coach is distracted by Radio. As a result, the Coach leaves the shop.
There is a suggestion in this scene that there is a disgruntled parent, who is no other than Frank
the Banker. He is the father of the lead jock on the football team. It has been implied earlier in
the film that the father was ticked off at the Coach for having Radio around. This sentiment is
reflected again at the end of this scene
Radio is disappointed about the end of the football season. His mother comforts him. Coach
Jones and Honeycutt discuss the possibility of Radio assisting with the basketball team. Coach
Jones leaves the decision up to Coach Honeycutt. It is decided, and Radio starts helping the
basketball team.
This scene begins with Radio taking the school bus to school. Principal Daniels asks Coach Jones
about Radio coming to school. She sets parameters with him. After a few classes, Coach Jones
tries to teach Radio to spell his name.
We meet Radio and Coach Jones at the cafe again. It is very obvious that Radio and the Coach
have become friendly and familiar. The level of their relationship is shown, in that it is a good
one.
A school board inspector arrives at Hanna High. The inspection relates directly to Radio being at
the school. The Coach, Principal, and the Inspector are featured. The Inspector argues that 'the
school has no experience having a severely retarded man walking down our halls- the risk is
enormous.' The Inspector warns the Principal and Coach.
Afterwards, Principal Daniels questions the Coach as to what his motives are for helping Radio.
His response was that 'Radio helps with basketball, and he is doing ok.' They reflect together on
Radio's progress, and determine that he is doing well.
This scene shows Radio involved with Coach Jones' family. They are having a Christmas tree
celebration outdoors in the community. Many people bring gift donations for Radio. Coach
Jones' daughter Mary Helen makes a comment that 'people are feeling sorry for him.' (Meaning
Radio)
This scene is an important one in the movie. It is at this point that Coach Jones recognizes his
deficit in his relationship with his own daughter. Mary Helen pipes up and says that she
understands that Radio needs the Coach's help more than she does.
Christmas: Coach Jones is shown sharing Christmas Cheer with Radio. This brings much joy to
Mrs. Kennedy, Radio, and Coach Jones. Mrs. Kennedy thanks the Coach for his generosity and
asks him, 'Why are you doing this?' Coach Jones replies, 'It's the right thing to do. He's no
problem at all.'
Meanwhile, back at the Jones' home, Mary Helen falls asleep on Christmas Eve waiting for her
father to return to the family home.
In this scene, Radio 're-gifts' the presents he was given at the Tree Lighting Ceremony. He walks
around his neighbourhood passing out gifts to his poor neighbours that were donated to him by
friends of Coach Jones.
A police car drives by and Radio is arrested. The policeman is a new cop on the beat who doesn't
know Radio. He thinks that Radio is not complying with a request. Once the new policeman
brings Radio to the station, the other police realize what has happened and calls Coach Jones to
come and help Radio out of the jam he is in.
Coach Jones fetches Radio from the station and gives the arresting cop a dirty look as if to say
'how dare you'. The new cop helps Radio pass out the remainder of the gifts to his poor
neighbours.
Coach Jones speaks to Radio about school. He reassures Radio that he was a good boy to give
out the presents. Radio now has a function of helping at school. He makes announcements on
the PA system, and is a hall monitor. He seems to be fitting in and enjoying his time at Hanna.
There is an incident. Radio is set up by the jocks on the basketball team. He is sent into the girls
locker room by the boys. When he gets in there, the girls scream because he shouldn't be there.
He is set up to seem as if he can't be trusted.
As a result, Radio is very upset. In the end, he covers up for the boys because he doesn't want
them to get in trouble. Coach Jones eventually finds out about it and says to Radio, 'You're a
better man than me.'
Coach Jones confronts Johnny Clay, the head jock on the basketball team who set up Radio in
the girls locker room. Coach Jones suspends the student from playing in the next game because
he was directly responsible for what happened to Radio. The student argues with the Coach, but
in the end, his word prevails.
Principal Daniels is shown dealing with complaints about the incident in the girls locker room
involving Radio. She questions the predictability of his behaviour. She asks 'Where is he going?'
The scene begins with Mary Helen, Coach Jones' daughter being very upset. She relays a
message to the Coach that Mrs. Kennedy, Radio's mom has passed away. Coach Jones goes to
Radio. The police are at his house. Radio has torn the place up.
Coach Jones helps Radio deal with the loss. He ensures to Radio that his mom will always be in
his heart.
Coach Jones shares a moment with his daughter. Coach Jones tells Mary Helen about a
childhood expereince of finding a boy under a porch when he was young. He tells her of how the
boy was 'kept there.' He expresses his guilt to her for not letting the boy out.
The School Board Inspector returned to Hanna High. A meeting was called with Principal
Daniels and Coach Jones. The Inspector was giving Coach Jones a hard time for having Radio in
the school. The questioning was in regards to Radio's inconsistent behaviour.
(this was the result of the incident in the girls locker room)
The Coach's response to the investigation was that 'the school is helping Radio do so well.'
This scene is a critical one to the story line. Coach Jones goes to the bank and confronts the bank
manager, Frank Clay, for ratting Radio out to the School Board Inspector. They discuss the issue
for a few moments, and Frank Clay's response to Coach Jones is this, "It is better if we do things
the way we used to."
In this scene, Coach Jones is working with Radio. It shows the Coach teaching Radio to print.
This give Radio esteem, confidence and pride in his accomplishment. Prior to this time, Radio
did not know how to do this.
Coach Jones runs into Principal Daniels speaking to Frank Clay, father of basketball star,
Johnny Clay. Frank is speaking to the Principal in order to arrange how to remove Radio from
the school. Coach Jones becomes aware of this motive and is disappointed in them both.
This scene shows the Hanna High basketball team winning the big game. Mr. Clay questions his
son for talking to Radio. Mr. Clay makes a comment to his son about 'Not letting anyone or
anything getting in his son's way.'
Coach Jones begins to question what he has done. Mrs. Jones shows her husband support for
the relationship between himself and Radio. Mrs. Jones' response was 'it's never a mistake to
care for someone.'
The movie concludes with Radio having to move on to the 12th grade. He participates in the
graduation ceremony with the other students. He shares the pride of Coach Jones and family,
and the Hanna High family in celebrating his promotion to the 12th grade.
The movie ends by showing the real life person, James Robert Kennedy, or Radio, and the real
life Coach Jones. Their relationship is explained, and Radio still assists in coaching at Hanna
High up until the date that the movie was released
Information from : http://radioafilmreview.blogspot.com/2007/03/scene-29.html
Issues in the Story Line: Acceptance, Tolerance, and
Understanding
Several themes are introduced throughout the storyline. Coach Jones is shown as an
authoritarian type teacher / coach who is revered by his students and many people in
the community. He is well respected. This general consensus carries through to the
sports field and relative games as a result. Historically, people of the town have not
questioned Coach Jones' authority or ability as a coach because of his proven track
record of being successful for producing a winning team. This element is challenged as
Coach Jones develops a relationship with Radio, a mentally challenged teenager. Many
of the townsfolk have little understanding or acceptance of individuals with special
needs in everyday life, or in the school setting. When Coach Jones brings Radio to the
football practices, games, school, and into the community, the community reacts in a
variety of ways. Some people immediately question his motives and actions. Other
people talk about his decision making ability behind his back, and attempt to take action
to fix the problem themselves.
The fact that Coach Jones befriended Radio in a day and age that was facing
desegregation, little acceptance of blacks, and heightened fears about people with
disabilities, it was a risk-ay thing to take on. Coach Jones' actions invited inspection and
criticism from the world around him. The Coach spent some time being introspective
about his actions, and explained himself to his wife, Radio's mother, Principal Daniels,
and daughter Mary Helen.
The issue of dispelling differences is raised in the movie. On many accounts, the idea
that 'we are all God's children' is brought up. Even though Radio experiences bullying,
teasing, hazing, and dismissal from many people, he trusts in the relationship he has
built with Coach Jones.
Coach Jones struggled in the movie with maintaining his sense of priorities. He wanted
to support Radio's development entirely, but was forced on many occasions to push his
convictions aside until he could build a community of acceptance in Anderson. Coach
Jones used his influence as a community leader to do so.
The issue of maintaining integrity was a central theme in the movie. Coach Jones was a
well known and respected individual in the town. On several occasions, Coach Jones
stands up to the people who question him, including his wife, Principal, colleagues, and
townsfolk. He makes it very clear that he has the right motives in mind. A quote from
Mrs. Jones in the movie reinforces this idea when she says, "It's never wrong to care
about someone."
The development of the relationship that Coach Jones had with Radio changed his life.
Coach Jones was able to make up for a mistake he made in his past, when he left a boy
under a porch who needed help. The Coach felt bad for this and tried to make up for it as
an adult. He had felt very guilty about leaving the boy under the porch many years
before. This sense of guilt helped to motivate the Coach to continue to assist Radio to
have a better life.
This helping behaviour that the Coach shared with Radio helped him get over his
feelings of guilt. It also allowed him to develop some feelings of adequacy as a care
provider, even though his relationship with his daughter did not improve much
throughout the movie. When the Coach shared his feelings with his daughter about the
guilt he had harbored, there was a small bridge built to commence the father daughter
relationship that previously was non-existent.
These struggles throughout the movie helped to foster an attitude of acceptance in the
community for Radio, in his presence at Hanna High and in Anderson. Coach Jones
facilitated understanding of differences, and the overall acceptance of Radio. These
issues were a pretty tall order for anyone to take on.
Ethical Dilemmas
"Ethics is the study of values and customs of a person or group and covers the analysis and
employment of concepts such as right and wrong, good and evil, and responsibility."
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethics)
When considering this definition provided by Wikipedia and the movie Radio, there are
fundamental ethical dilemmas that are brought about by the movie's storyline. Throughout the
movie, there is a struggle for Coach Jones to do what is right. He has to maintain his values and
commitment to Radio throughout the movie regardless of what his colleagues, peers, and family
members say about his actions. In essence, what Coach Jones was struggling with can be
referred to as 'Pragmatics', or the struggle for goodness or virtue. John Dewey, esteemed
educational philosopher wrote in-depth about the subject. Dewey wrote that "the conception of
education as a social process and function has no definite meaning until we define the kind of
society we have in mind." (Flinders and Thornton, 2004, 264)
Even though Coach Jones was an educator in the 1970s, his ethical standards are comparable to
those held by the teaching profession of Ontario teachers of our day. The Ontario College of
Teachers recently revised the ethics document of the College to a revised document entitled the
Foundations of Professional Practice (2006). In this document, there are four areas of
ethical standards that are described. They include: care, respect, trust, and integrity. When
considering these four areas in terms of Coach Jones' teaching practice, he is an exemplary
example of each item. Coach Jones cares for Radio, shows him and his family respect,
establishes trust, and indeed has integrity. He is committed enough to his purpose to stand up to
his community and show by example how others should be treated.
A definite underlying theme of the movie could easily be titled, 'Do unto Others as you would
Have Them Do unto you.'
The ethical dilemmas are resolved in a series of events in the movie. Initially, Radio is not
accepted by the football team members. As he is present at more practices, he becomes involved
and gets to know the team. They in turn also get to know him. Their initial fears about
individuals with special needs are beginning to be broken down. Once Radio is brought into
school, there are a whole new set of people who must adjust to him being around. This includes
educational administration, other colleagues, and students of Hanna High. The more people are
around Radio they realize that he is just like the other kids in many ways, and is in no way
dangerous to be around. Coach Jones brings Radio into the community on several occasions.
They eat at a local cafe regularly, and attend community functions together. These outings again
help the community adjust their preconceived notions of who Radio really is.
Radio is a silent leader. He leads by example and the Golden Rule: “Do Unto Others as You
Would Have Them do Unto You.” Throughout the movie, Radio goes about his business and
does not bother anyone. He is a victim at certain points, as a result of other people mistreating
him. He does not hold a grudge against them, but continues to befriend the individuals in his
life. One might have the impression that Radio is exceptionally naïve, which may be a result of
his having special needs. On a second occasion, when Johnny Clay sends him into the girl’s
locker room to get him in trouble, Radio purposely does not ‘rat Johnny out’ when asked by
Coach Jones what happened. He takes the rap for Johnny Clay, even though Coach Jones knows
Radio is covering for him. Eventually, the people of Anderson, South Carolina accept and
welcome Radio into the community. The nicest part of this story is that Radio is a real person,
and this is a true story. You can visit the website at http://www.radioandcoachjones.com/ .
Coach Jones is an incredible human being. He works as an educator and Head Coach at Hanna
High school. He is well liked and respected by all; fellow educators and colleagues, community
members, and athletes. He has much experience in the field of Coaching. He uses both Referent
and Expert Power to lead in the movie. I would say that it could almost considered reverence
how he is treated by the members of the community. Neither according to nor house, Coach
Jones holds both “position and personal power”. (p. 7) Coach Jones is a leader in his position as
a coach, and by “his capacity to lead as being seen as likable and knowledgeable.” (p. 7)
nor house defines leadership as “a process whereby an individual influences a group of
individuals to achieve a common goal.” (p. 3) Coach Jones does just this. He produces change
and movement in the community by establishing direction, aligning people, and inspiring them
to change. This is done when he establishes a friendship with Radio and maintains it throughout
the movie, despite questioning by family, fellow staff members, and the greater community.
When the movie begins, I have a feeling that Coach Jones has no idea what he has taken on.
Throughout the movie, he rises to the occasion of dealing with questioning and ridicule, as well
as dispelling the myths and misunderstandings held by the community about Radio in general.
Coach Jones took Radio in, gave him love and encouragement, helped to provide for his needs,
supported him in the community, and helped to give him a purpose in life. What greater gift can
one person give to another?
The Coach had a very strong set of morals and ethics. He had to face something that had very
deep roots in the south; that being racial prejudice and prejudice based on disability. Nor house
defines prejudice as “a largely fixed attitude, belief, or emotion held by an individual about
another individual based on faulty or unsubstantiated information.” (p. 304) this was exactly the
situation in Anderson, South Carolina. In order to overcome this circumstance, Coach Jones
conducted himself in a way that was both ethical and character based. Nor house describes
principals of ethical leadership as being “building community, respecting others, serving others,
showing justice, and manifesting honesty.” (p. 350) Even though there were struggles
throughout the film, the Coach was able to overcome the prejudice held by the community
members, and work towards building a more humane and rewarding life for Radio.
http://radioafilmreview.blogspot.com/2007/03/leadership-portrayed-in-film.html
The Beatitudes
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Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Verse 3)
Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land. (Verse 4)
Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be comforted. (Verse 5)
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill. (Verse 6)
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. (Verse 7)
Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God. (Verse 8)
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (Verse 9)
Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
(Verse 10) (Source: The Bible, Gospel of Matthew)
Faith Hope Charity fromt eh Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified
The three theological virtues (faith, hope, and charity) allow man to share in God's nature. These
virtues relate directly to God who directly infuses these three virtues into the soul where they
make the believers capable of living as God's children and meriting eternal life.
Believing What God Revealed (1814-1816)
By faith, we believe in God, in all that he has revealed, and in all that the Church proposes for
our belief. Faith leads to a total committal. "The righteous shall live by faith" (Rom 1:17).
When faith is deprived of hope and love, it does not unite the believer to Christ nor make him a
living member of the body. "Faith apart from works is dead" (Jas 2:26).
Christ's disciple must spread the faith to others, even if this brings about persecution. Jesus said,
"Whoever acknowledge me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father" and
"Whoever denies me before men, I will deny before my Father" (Mt 10:43-33).
Hoping and Searching for the Kingdom (1817-1818)
By hope, we seek heaven, place our trust in Christ's promises, and rely on the Holy Spirit. We
must "hold fast to our confession of hope" (Heb 10:23). Through the Spirit, we have "become
heirs in hope of eternal life" (Titus 3:6-7).
Into everyone's heart, God has placed a search for happiness. Hope responds to this desire. It
sustains man, frees him from discouragement, preserves him from selfishness, and leads to
happiness on earth and in heaven.
Abraham's Hope (1819)
Israel's hope was modeled upon Abraham who trusted in God's promise even when asked to
sacrifice Isaac. "Hoping against hope, he believed, and thus became the father of many nations"
(Rom 4:18).
Our Hope of Heaven through Jesus (1820-1821)
Jesus unfolded Christian hope in the beatitudes, proclaiming that those who suffer trials on earth
are blessed in heaven. This hope "does not disappoint" (Rom 5:5) because Jesus has gone ahead
"as a forerunner on our behalf" (Heb 6:19-20). Therefore, we can hope to gain heaven and to
persevere "to the end" (Mt 10:22). The Church prays for "all men to be saved" (1 Tim 2:4) and
she awaits union with Christ, the Bridegroom. "Hope, O my soul, hope. Watch carefully. Dream
that the more you struggle, the more you will rejoice one day with your Beloved" (St. Teresa of
Avila).
Loving God and Neighbor (1822-1824)
By charity, we love God for his own sake and our neighbor as ourselves for the love of God.
Jesus loved us "to the end" (Jn 13:1). He told his disciples to "love one another as I have loved
you" (Jn 15:9, 12). Charity keeps the commandments of God and of Christ, "If you keep my
commandments, you will abide in my love" (Jn 15:9-10).
Paul's Description (1825-1826)
Christ demands that we love everyone, especially our enemies, our neighbors and the poor. St.
Paul says that love is patient and kind, believing, helping, and enduring all things. Love is not
jealous, boastful, arrogant, rude, irritable, or resentful.
Without charity, "I am nothing" and "I gain nothing." "So faith, hope, and charity abide, these
three. But the greatest of these is charity" (1 Cor 13:1-13).
Love Animates the Moral Life (1827-1829)
Charity binds all virtues "together in perfect harmony (Col 3:14) and gives them order. Charity
purifies and raises human love to the perfection of God's love.
When charity animates his moral life, the Christian is free from servile fear and lives as a son
responding to God who "first loved us" (1 Jn 4:19). "If we obey out of love for him who
commands, we are in the position of his children" (St. Augustine).
Charity is benevolent, disinterested, and generous, bringing forth friendship and communion.
"Love is the goal. Once we reach it, we shall find rest"(St. Augustine).
. THE HUMAN VIRTUES
1804 Human virtues are firm attitudes, stable dispositions, habitual perfections of intellect
and will that govern our actions, order our passions, and guide our conduct according to
reason and faith. They make possible ease, self-mastery, and joy in leading a morally good
life. The virtuous man is he who freely practices the good.
The moral virtues are acquired by human effort. They are the fruit and seed of morally good
acts; they dispose all the powers of the human being for communion with divine love.
The cardinal virtues
1805 Four virtues play a pivotal role and accordingly are called "cardinal"; all the others are
grouped around them. They are: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. "If anyone
loves righteousness, [Wisdom's] labors are virtues; for she teaches temperance and
prudence, justice, and courage."64 These virtues are praised under other names in many
passages of Scripture.
1806 Prudence is the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every
circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it; "the prudent man looks where
he is going."65 "Keep sane and sober for your prayers." 66 Prudence is "right reason in
action," writes St. Thomas Aquinas, following Aristotle.67 It is not to be confused with
timidity or fear, nor with duplicity or dissimulation. It is called auriga virtutum (the
charioteer of the virtues); it guides the other virtues by setting rule and measure. It is
prudence that immediately guides the judgment of conscience. The prudent man determines
and directs his conduct in accordance with this judgment. With the help of this virtue we
apply moral principles to particular cases without error and overcome doubts about the
good to achieve and the evil to avoid.
1807 Justice is the moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due
to God and neighbor. Justice toward God is called the "virtue of religion." Justice toward
men disposes one to respect the rights of each and to establish in human relationships the
harmony that promotes equity with regard to persons and to the common good. The just
man, often mentioned in the Sacred Scriptures, is distinguished by habitual right thinking
and the uprightness of his conduct toward his neighbor. "You shall not be partial to the poor
or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor." 68 "Masters, treat
your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven."69
1808 Fortitude is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the
pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome
obstacles in the moral life. The virtue of fortitude enables one to conquer fear, even fear of
death, and to face trials and persecutions. It disposes one even to renounce and sacrifice
his life in defense of a just cause. "The Lord is my strength and my song."70 "In the world
you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."71
1809 Temperance is the moral virtue that moderates the attraction of pleasures and
provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the will's mastery over instincts
and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable. The temperate person directs the
sensitive appetites toward what is good and maintains a healthy discretion: "Do not follow
your inclination and strength, walking according to the desires of your heart."72 Temperance
is often praised in the Old Testament: "Do not follow your base desires, but restrain your
appetites."73 In the New Testament it is called "moderation" or "sobriety." We ought "to live
sober, upright, and godly lives in this world."74
To live well is nothing other than to love God with all one's heart, with all one's soul and with all one's
efforts; from this it comes about that love is kept whole and uncorrupted (through temperance). No
misfortune can disturb it (and this is fortitude). It obeys only [God] (and this is justice), and is careful in
discerning things, so as not to be surprised by deceit or trickery (and this is prudence). 75
The virtues and grace
1810 Human virtues acquired by education, by deliberate acts and by a perseverance everrenewed in repeated efforts are purified and elevated by divine grace. With God's help, they
forge character and give facility in the practice of the good. The virtuous man is happy to
practice them.
1811 It is not easy for man, wounded by sin, to maintain moral balance. Christ's gift of
salvation offers us the grace necessary to persevere in the pursuit of the virtues. Everyone
should always ask for this grace of light and strength, frequent the sacraments, cooperate
with the Holy Spirit, and follow his calls to love what is good and shun evil.
Source: http://www.catholicity.com/catechism/faith-hope-charity.html
Your Challenge
To achieve level 1 or 2, complete 1 & 2 (comic strip and a paragraph). To achieve level 2,3,
or 4, complete 1,2, and 3 (comic strip, paragraph, and five paragraph essay).
1. Create a comic strip showing a scene from the movie radio that demonstrates one of the
beatitudes or one of the theological virtues, or cardinal virtues.
Make sure to include:
a) At least 4, up to 8 eight panels in the comic strip
b) Dialogue bubbles for conversations in the comics
c) The story written below the comic
d) Detailed pictures of the characters
e) A title for the comic
2. Write a paragraph explaining how the comic demonstrates the beatitude or virtue that you
chose.
3. Write a five paragraph essay, arguing that either Radio or coach Jones personify 3 of any
combination of the beatitudes, the three theological virtues (faith, hope, charity), or the cardinal
virtues (prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance).
There should be an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph.
There should be a clear thesis statement. There should be three key points from the movie,
supported by examples to illustrate the beatitude or virtues.
Essay Example
by Pete Larabie
In the movie Radio, the character Radio personifies the beatitude of “blessed are the
clean of heart”, the theological virtue of charity, and the cardinal virtue of prudence. Radio
demonstrates that he is someone who is clean of heart, as he is happy to help the football team
anyway that he can. He also shows the theological virtue of charity when he gave all of his
Christmas presents away. As well, Radio displayed the cardinal virtue of prudence when he was
tricked into entering the girls change room, but still took responsibility for his actions. Radio,
exemplifies someone who has a pure heart, is charitable, and is prudent.
Radio, who is a young adult with limited academic abilities, shows that he is a simplistic,
clean hearted character in several ways. He seems to be shy and keeps to himself, walking by
the school each day with his grocery cart full of collectables. As well, throughout the movie;
Radio shows several times, that he is good hearted, and tries to do the right thing. He helps out
the team at practices, and tries to support the team anyway that he can. When the players are in
the change room Radio passes out towels and water to the players. He does these small gestures
to help the team with a cheerful disposition and seems to expect nothing in return. Although, he
does seem to appreciate it when someone does a nice gesture for him, such as when he is given
some food, such as a hamburger, fries and a coke; or pie at the local diner, from Coach Jones.
As Radio becomes more comfortable with helping out the team, he seems to feel more and more
like a part of the team, and he shows that he likes to give back to the players and the team as
well.
Throughout the movie, Radio demonstrates the theological virtue of charity. When he
was given Christmas presents from the friends of Coach Jones, Radio gave them all away to his
less fortunate neighbours. Thinking of the other members of the community shows that Radio
“loves his neighbor as himself for the love of God”i. Radio gives his time freely, and finds joy in
helping the players. He is respectful and kind during the movie. These are some of the ways
that Radio acts charitably in the movie.
Radio acts prudently after the incident involving him being misled into entering the girls
change room. Radio did not realize that the girls in the change room would be put off by seeing
him as he was told by Johnny Clay that they wanted to see him, and Radio did not suspect that
Johnny would lie to him. Even though he could have told the authorities that Johnny did this,
and he would have had every right to do so, he chose not to. By not telling on Johnny, he
“disposed practical reason to discern the true good in the given circumstance, and chose the right
means of achieving it”ii. By not ratting out Johnny, he earned the respect of coach, and the
respect of Johnny. Radio, did not get dragged down into blaming others for what happened.
This is evident as when Coach Jones was speaking with Johnny, he noted that Radio didn’t rat
him out, and that the other players did. Coach Jones spoke in a serious tone showing his
displeasure at what Johnny did. After the incident, later on in the movie, Johnny seemed to feel
bad about it, and got along well with Radio, defending Radio at one point to his father. Clearly,
the way that Radio handled the change room incident was “right reason in action”iii, and
demonstrated the Cardinal virtue of prudence.
During the movie, Radio shows that he is someone who is “clean of heart”, acts
charitably and prudently at times throughout the film. The way that Radio respects the team
members and coaching staff show how clean hearted he is. Radio is very charitable with his
time, as he volunteers to help out the team any way that he can. It was prudent of Radio to
consider the effects of ratting out Johnny for tricking him into going into the girls change room,
so that he could get along with everyone. Radio is a character that is simple in many ways, but
he also acts clean-hearted, prudently and charitably in a way that sets a good example for others
to follow.
Success Criteria for:
Radio Beatitude assignment
For the comic strip
-There are at least 4 panels in the comic
strip
-There are dialogue bubbles for the
conversations
-The story is written below the comic
-There are detailed pictures
-Pictures are coloured
-there is a title for the comic strip
-The comic strip is neatly done
-There are interesting details in the
comic strip
For the paragraph explaining the
comic strip
-There is a paragraph explaining clearly
what beatitude or virtue is being
explained in the comic strip.
-The paragraph relates clearly how the
scene in the movie shows the beatitude
or virtue.
-The spelling, grammar and punctuation
are well done
For the essay
-There is an introduction, three body
paragraphs and a conclusion.
-The introduction states the main thesis
And three key points(3 virtues and/or
beatitudes) and relates them to the
movie.
-There is a body paragraph for each of
the 3 beatitudes or virtues chosen
-The body paragraphs are filled with
creative details
-The body paragraphs clearly show how
each of the virtues or beatitudes were
demonstrated in the movie.
-there are quotes from the catechism, or
articles about the movie inserted into
the essay, with endnotes.
-There is a conclusion that relates back
to the three key points, and sums up the
main ideas of the essay.
Met
Un-met
I noticed . . .
-spelling, grammar and punctuation are
well done.
-There are many interesting words used.
-The sentences flow well together.
-There are a variety of transitions for
paragraphs (not the same ones all the
time)
Introductory Paragraph
General Topic Sentence:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Subtopic One:
Subtopic Two:
Subtopic Three:
(Transition)
First Supporting Paragraph
1. Restate Subtopic One
2. Supporting Details or Examples
3. (Transition)
Second Supporting Paragraph
1. Restate Subtopic Two
2. Supporting Details or Examples
3. (Transition)
Third Supporting Paragraph
1. Restate Subtopic Three
2. Supporting Details or Examples
3. (Transition)
Closing or Summary Paragraph
1. Synthesis and conclusion of the thesis
2. Rephrasing main topic and subtopics.
Write the essay!
Think small; build the full essay gradually.
Divide your essay into sections and develop each piece separately and incrementally.
The Introductory Paragraph
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


The opening paragraph sets the tone
It not only introduces the topic, but where you are going with it (the thesis). If you do a
good job in the opening, you will draw your reader into your "experience." Put effort up
front, and you will reap rewards.
Write in the active voice
It is much more powerful. Do that for each sentence in the introductory essay. Unless you
are writing a personal narrative, do not use the pronoun "I."
Varying sentence structure
Review to avoid the same dull pattern of always starting with the subject of the sentence.
Brainstorm to find the best supporting ideas
The best supporting ideas are the ones about which you have some knowledge. If you do
not know about them, you cannot do a good job writing about them. Don't weaken the
essay with ineffective argument.
Practice writing introductory paragraphs on various topics
Even if you do not use them, they can be compared with the type of writing you are doing
now. It is rewarding to see a pattern of progress.
Supporting Paragraphs
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
Write a transition to establish the sub-topic
Each paragraph has to flow, one to the next.
Write the topic sentence
The transition can be included in the topic sentence.
Supporting ideas, examples, details must be specific to the sub-topic
The tendency in supporting paragraphs is to put in just about anything.
Avoid this: the work you have made above with details and examples will help you keep
focused.
Vary sentence structure
Avoid repetitious pronouns and lists
Avoid beginning sentences the same way (subject + verb + direct object).
The Ending or Summary Paragraph
This is a difficult paragraph to write effectively.
You cannot assume that the reader sees your point



Restate the introductory thesis/paragraph with originality
Do not simply copy the first paragraph
Summarize your argument with some degree of authority
this paragraph should leave your reader with no doubt as to your position or conclusion
of logic
Be powerful as this is the last thought that you are leaving with the reader.
Edit and revise your essay
Check your spelling and grammar
Subjects and verbs agree, and verb tenses are consistent
Examine your whole essay for logic
Thought builds and flows?
Avoid gaps in logic, or too much detail.
Review individual sentences



Use active verbs to be more descriptive
Avoid passive constructions and the verb "to be"
Use transitional words and phrases
Avoid sentences beginning with pronouns, constructions as "There are....,"
Example: "There is a need to proofread all works" becomes "Proofreading is a must."
Be concise
though vary the length and structure of sentences
Ask a knowledgeable friend to review and comment on your essay
and to repeat back what you are trying to say. You may be surprised.
i
http://www.catholicity.com/catechism/faith-hope-charity.html
ii
http://www.catholicity.com/catechism/faith-hope-charity.html
iii
http://www.catholicity.com/catechism/faith-hope-charity.html
Success Criteria To insert endnotes,
1. In Microsoft word, move the cursor to the point after the quote where you want the endnote to be.
2. Click on References.
3. Click on Insert Endnote
4. Enter the information about where you got your source. i.e. it might be a website, etc.