Xavier: Missionary and Saint (DVD) (Enhanced Widescreen for 16x9 TV) (Eng) 2006

As a period of time stretching from the early 1400s into the late 1600s, the 'Age of Exploration' witnessed millions of Europeans journeying from the safety and fortitude of their own continent into the unknown of the surrounding world, where they met and co-mingled with theretofore unfamiliar races from Africa, Asia and North and South America. Though such an era was characterized by sweeping ignorance and murderous error, one remarkable man projected the opposite qualities. Xavier, a missionary who later achieved sainthood, consistently projected compassion and grace when confronted with diversity, but ironically ended his life alone and stranded on a barren island. As narrated by Oscar-winner Liam Neeson, this remarkable documentary tells Xavier's unique and amazing story; it draws from such elements as interviews with theologians and historians and makes use of on-location scenery shot in countries including India, China, Spain and Italy. The program was produced to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Xavier's birth. ~ Nathan Southern, Rovi