News — Angels and Saints

Screening of “Angels and Saints - Eros and Awe”

Edie Weinstein, MSW, LSW (Perkasie, Pennsylvania) and Rodney Whittenberg (Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania)

The screening of this award-winning documentary was preceded by and followed by a panel discussion with the Rodney and Edie. The presentation addressed the historic schism between “the spirit” and "the flesh” which has been perpetuated by traditional religions through the promotion of body-shame, fear and guilt and excessive cultural controls. They discussed key scenes from this new documentary, which had been selected by 16 national and international film festivals. Our modern day “Angels and Saints”, who represent a spectrum of gender and sexual identities, speak not only to the harm perpetuated through this cultural splitting but also of ways they have reconnected spirituality and sexuality and developed a sense of personal and communal wholeness and meaning. There was a 10-minute introduction, followed by the screening of the 57-minute film and then a 20-minute Q & A period. Participants shared their thoughts and feelings after viewing the film. Here are a few of their responses:

"Where was this film when I was 14?"

"This film will save lives."

"This film will save souls."

We have had a a few test screenings as we are putting the finishing touches on the film.

Here is what people are saying about Angels & Saints

“An eye-opening film with interesting speakers and lots of food for thought. It reinforces an enlightened sex-positive perspective, and we recommend it.” -Rod Love Schichtel, Membership Director, EastonMountain Retreat Center

“The film featured a diverse panel of teachers who offered a lot of useful insight about the connection between sexuality and spirituality, and the intersection of gender expression and orientation.” -Freddy Freeman, Marketing Director, Easton Mountain Retreat Center.

"An educational and supportive video that gives permission for pleasure to all people." Dr. Beverly Whipple, sexuality educator and author of international best seller, The G Spot and Other Discoveries About Human Sexuality.

“I found the film very touching. As a psychotherapist, I am often confronted by the shaming of those who do not conform to religious norms of sexuality. Sex can become sacred when we remove the shame.”

Jean Phillips, LCSW

“Great Idea for a film and wonderful creativity in putting it all together.” Bob Groves, Public Health and Social Service Administrator, retired

“The dance and poetry were woven in seamlessly enhancing its impact! “ Lavonne France, Chemist and Project Manager, retired

“Angels and Saints is a beautifully crafted, powerful, brave, and significant film. It is a gift to all of humanity by reminding us how sexuality is such an integral part of our wholeness. The discussions in the film, from religious and spiritual leaders, demonstrate the strong connection between sexuality and spirituality and how they both can actually enhance each other. The beautiful visuals and dance movements poignantly underscore the ideas and concepts. Angels and Saints supports and encourages us to be our authentic selves despite other influences that might work against that transformative goal.”

Donald M. Friedman, M.D. , Medical School Instructor

“Wonderful film. Very diverse voices, and terrific interplay of words and animation...really liked the range of image-making!”

Lance Laver, Architect and Project Manager, retired