Watch The Invocation

The Invocation is a 2010 documentary film that explores the concept of prayer and its role in different cultures and religions around the world. The film is directed by Emmanuel Itier and features interviews with prominent spiritual leaders, philosophers, and thinkers. Karen Armstrong, Michael Beckwith, and Mustapha Cherif are among the many experts who share their insights about what prayer means to them and how it can be used to bring about positive change in the world.

The film begins with a series of inspiring quotes and images from various religious texts and traditions that highlight the importance of prayer in human life. From the prayers of the ancient Greeks to the mantras of the Eastern mystics, the film presents a rich tapestry of spiritual practices and beliefs that all share a common thread of seeking connection with something larger than oneself.

As the film progresses, we are introduced to a diverse range of scholars and practitioners who offer their perspectives on prayer and its power to transform individuals and communities. Karen Armstrong, a renowned author and scholar of comparative religion, speaks eloquently about the role of compassion in prayer and how it can help us to transcend our egos and connect with others on a deeper level.

Michael Beckwith, the founder of the Agape International Spiritual Center, shares his insights about the power of intention in prayer and how it can be used to manifest positive outcomes. Mustapha Cherif, an Islamic scholar from Algeria, discusses the importance of prayer in the context of social justice and how it can inspire us to take action for the greater good.

Throughout the film, we are presented with a wide range of perspectives on prayer - from the mystical experiences of Sufi dancers to the practical applications of meditation in modern mindfulness practices. The film also explores the role of prayer in the lives of ordinary people, from the homeless woman praying for food to the cancer patient seeking comfort in her faith.

One of the key themes of The Invocation is the idea that prayer can be used to bridge the divides that separate us as human beings. Whether it is the divide between religions, cultures, or individuals, prayer has the power to bring us together in a spirit of unity and compassion. The film presents examples of interfaith prayer gatherings and other initiatives aimed at promoting greater understanding and cooperation between different groups.

Another important theme of the film is the idea that prayer can be a source of strength and resilience in times of crisis. Whether it is the aftermath of a natural disaster or a personal struggle, prayer can offer a sense of hope and comfort that helps us to persevere in the face of adversity. The film features moving testimonials from survivors of Hurricane Katrina and other disasters who found solace in their faith and the prayers of others.

Overall, The Invocation is a thought-provoking and inspiring film that explores the many facets of prayer and its role in human life. It is a powerful reminder that despite our differences, we all share a fundamental longing for connection and meaning in our lives. By bringing together a diverse array of voices and perspectives, the film offers a compelling vision of how prayer can help us to create a better world for ourselves and each other.

The Invocation is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.3.