The Vatican: An Inside Look - "Upon this Rock" - A WRAL Documentary

Summary

This documentary, 'Upon This Rock,' recounts the historic moment when Capitol Broadcasting became the first to film inside the Vatican using a high-definition camera. Hosted by David Crabtree, the piece explores the rich history, religious significance, and architectural grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica. It highlights key aspects of the Vatican, from Michelangelo’s Pietà to the tomb of the Apostle Peter. The documentary reflects on faith, history, and the influential role of Pope John Paul II, emphasizing the enduring impact of Catholicism on both the spiritual and cultural worlds.

Takeaways

• 📅 It's been 20 years since Capitol Broadcasting made history by filming the first high-definition video inside the Vatican.
• 🎥 The documentary 'Upon This Rock' explores the Vatican’s spiritual and historical significance, focusing on its role in Catholicism.
• ⛪ St. Peter's Basilica is a grand symbol of the Catholic Church, built over the tomb of the Apostle Peter, with a rich history spanning over 2,000 years.
• 🎨 Michelangelo's iconic works, including the Sistine Chapel and the Pieta, are highlighted as masterpieces contributing to the Basilica's grandeur.
• 🕊️ The documentary emphasizes the deep spiritual significance of St. Peter's Basilica for Catholics, as a place where history, faith, and art converge.
• 👤 Father Tim O'Conner, a priest from Raleigh, celebrates Mass in the Basilica and shares his personal connection to the church through his Lithuanian heritage.
• 🙏 Father Tim recalls his struggle to become a priest after facing health challenges, emphasizing faith and perseverance.
• 🔨 The Basilica’s construction, spanning over a century, involved some of the greatest architects and artists of the Western world.
• 🎯 The assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II in 1981 is remembered as a dramatic moment in the history of St. Peter's Square.
• 👑 Pope John Paul II is portrayed as a man of great significance to the Catholic world, whose long reign has profoundly impacted history.

Q & A

What significant historical event involving Capitol Broadcasting is mentioned at the beginning of the script?

Capitol Broadcasting made world-wide history by bringing the first high definition camera inside the Vatican, which led to the creation of the documentary 'Upon This Rock.'

Why is the Vatican referred to as a 'grand repository of art and history'?

The Vatican is home to some of the greatest works of art and architecture, including Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica, and it holds 2,000 years of history.

What is the significance of Saint Peter’s Basilica mentioned in the script?

Saint Peter’s Basilica is built over the tomb of the apostle Peter and is considered the largest church building in the world, symbolizing the foundation of Christianity.

Who designed Saint Peter’s Basilica, and what is unique about its dome?

The design of Saint Peter’s Basilica was contributed to by Bramante, Bernini, and Michelangelo. The dome is so high that it can fit three space shuttles or three Statues of Liberty, one on top of the other, with room to spare.

What artifact is believed to be held beneath the Basilica, and why is it important?

Beneath the Basilica, behind a mosaic, are believed to be the bones of the apostle Peter. These bones are seen as the foundation of the Christian church, fulfilling the scripture where Christ said to Peter, 'Upon this rock, I will build my church.'

Who is Father Tim O'Conner, and what personal connection does he have to Saint Peter’s Basilica?

Father Tim O'Conner is a priest from Raleigh, with Lithuanian heritage. He celebrated Mass in Saint Peter’s Basilica, specifically in the Lithuanian Chapel, making it a personal and spiritual homecoming for him.

What personal challenge did Father Tim O'Conner face before becoming a priest?

Father Tim O'Conner faced rejection from the seminary due to health problems, specifically a heart murmur. However, he later received acceptance after the bishop of North Carolina responded to his letter.

What significant event involving Pope John Paul II is mentioned in the script?

The script mentions the 1981 assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II, which occurred in Saint Peter’s Square. The pope was critically injured but survived the attempt.

How is Pope John Paul II described in terms of his role and impact on the world?

Pope John Paul II is described as a king-like figure in the Catholic world, a man who has changed history, reigned for over two decades, and continues to attract large crowds globally.

What does the script convey about the significance of the Vatican for Roman Catholics?

The script emphasizes that for Roman Catholics, the Vatican is a place to connect with their religious roots, as it houses important artifacts, art, and the tomb of Saint Peter, the foundation of Christianity.