In Easter week 2013, documentary maker Brian Kenny traveled to the Philippines to tell the story of the Columban missionary Fr Rufus Halley who was shot and killed during an attempted kidnapping in Mindanao, Philippines.
Fr. Halley had been working alongside other Columbans in majority Muslim areas. He spent time living within the communities and learning their language and customs to facilitate better dialogue between Muslim and Christians, whose historic relationship has been littered with misunderstandings and at times violent conflict.
Brian started his journey at the Columban house in Manila and travelled deep into Mindanao meeting with Fr Paul Glynn, who currently carries on the Fr. Haley's work of interfaith dialogue. On his way he meets old friends of Rufus both Muslims and Christians as the story of Rufus and the Columbans work in Mindanao is unravelled.
The story ends with Brian accompanying Fr Paul Glynn to the area Fr Paul previously worked and Rufus was killed. It is Fr Paul's first time to visit in many years as after Rufus was Fr Paul had to leave due to security concerns.
Remembering Rufus is a moving documentary which highlights the gallant efforts of Irish Missionaries in establishing peace between Christians and their Muslim neighbours. It is both a tribute to Fr Rufus Halley and a testament to the ongoing work of the Columbans.
Remembering Rufus was made with the support of Misean Cara and will broadcast on Newstalk on Saturday at 7am and will be repeated on Sunday at 6pm.
