Sisters at Nazareth gathered this past week for an early screening of CURRENT: A Descendant’s Journey for Truth, a documentary that includes a strong connection to Nazareth and the history preserved in the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth Archives.
The rough cut of the film was shown in two parts over two days, giving Sisters an opportunity to view the work before its final release. The film and the history it explores prompted considerable conversation among the Sisters as they reflected on Nazareth’s past and the importance of continuing to bring these stories forward.
The documentary grew out of producer Pam Smith’s search into her own family history. Through that research, Pam discovered that one of her ancestors, Mary McCrosky, attended school at Nazareth from 1856 to 1865. That discovery brought Pam to Nazareth many times over the years as she continued to learn more about her family.
As part of the film, Pam returned to Nazareth and spent time with Sister Theresa Knabel. In the documentary, Sister Theresa helps explore the history of African Americans and enslaved people connected to Nazareth through archival records, photographs and stories that continue to be researched and shared.
The film places Pam’s family story within a broader examination of historical truth-telling. It looks at the role of oral histories, genealogy, archival records, archaeology and historic sites in helping communities better understand the past. It also asks a central question: Why is it important to tell the full truth about history?
That question carried particular meaning during the screening at Nazareth. The film invited reflection on what is already known, what remains to be uncovered and the responsibility to preserve and share stories that have too often been overlooked.
Following the second part of the screening, the Sisters met by Zoom with producer Pam Smith and director Loria King. The conversation gave them an opportunity to ask questions about the film, Pam’s family research and the process of bringing these stories to the screen.
During the conversation, Pam shared that she has spent about 30 years researching her enslaved ancestors. She described the film as a three-part journey, beginning in Virginia, continuing through Kentucky and, if funding allows, eventually reaching Sierra Leone, where DNA research has traced part of her family lineage.
Loria said she was drawn to the project by questions about memory, including whose stories are preserved, whose stories are left out and how the records available to us shape what we understand about the past. Pam also spoke about the importance of preserving fragile court and archival records that have helped her uncover details about her family.
The discussion became personal for many of the Sisters. Several shared memories of segregation and racial divisions they encountered growing up or during their ministries. Sister Theresa spoke about the importance of knowing history in its fullness and recognizing the dignity of each person. Other Sisters said the film helped them reconsider experiences from their own lives through a different lens.
The Sisters also offered feedback as Pam and Loria continue editing the film, including the value of leaving space for discussion so viewers can process what they have seen. Pam said the filmmakers hope to have the final cut completed by spring and would like to screen it at Nazareth for a community screening. The continuing conversation reflects Nazareth’s commitment to examining its history honestly and ensuring that stories connected to this place are remembered and shared.