Austin Gay and Lesbian International Film Festival 2009

In an enduring photograph of September 11, a team of rescue workers carries a Franciscan priest’s body from the World Trade Center. In death, Father Mychal Judge, a chaplain of the Fire Department of New York City, came to be known around the world as a symbol of courage and sacrifice.

Narrated by Sir Ian McKellen, Saint of 9/11 presents the turbulent spiritual journey of a remarkable man. Compassionate champion of the needy and forgotten, beloved chaplain, rousing Irish-American balladeer and restless iconoclast, Father Judge was a humble parish priest who wrestled with his own private demons while touching others in powerful and miraculous ways.

Father Judge was a gay man who loved his priestly work. Throughout his career as a friar, he lived a life of witness, action and love. He provided hope, warmth, compassion and acceptance. Mychal Judge knew the pain of loss and suffering. He struggled with alcoholism and was an outspoken AA advocate. Through his own vulnerability, imperfection and fragile humanity, he was able to reach people in their pain, shame and fragility.

Saint of 9/11 weaves interviews with friends, colleagues and congregants along with archival footage of Father Judge. The film portrays his life as a spiritual adventure and celebrates his honest embrace of life.

Finalist for the Soundpost Feature Film Director Award