From Elvis to the Abbey: Dolores Hart’s Journey from Hollywood to God

The Catholic Patriotic Minute has some great YouTube videos, providing a wonderful way to learn about individuals who have lived out a courageous devotion to our country and to God. We thought this one on Dolores Hart was ideal to share with you.

Mother Dolores Hart: From Hollywood to a Benedictine Abbey

It often seems that part of a young adult’s search for meaning has always been struck with a certain temptation toward fame and fortune. This was certainly true for Dolores Hart, who was drawn to Hollywood where she began her career as a film actress. While Dolores did find fame and fortune in Hollywood, she was also able to subdue this competing voice enough to hear God’s voice within. For Dolores, the awareness of peace that came from the call the Lord had placed upon her heart to serve Him was unmistakable.

Dolores Hart’s story is compelling for youth today who are seeking to find their place and leave their mark upon the world. As the voice of our culture becomes increasingly louder, making it nearly impossible to hear the voice of God amidst the many distractions, a story of hope is much needed. Dolores’s story portrays the importance of listening to our interior movements and is a testament to how living a prayerful and sacramental life is key to receiving God’s grace. She shows that it is possible to turn away from worldly lures toward the joy found in God’s plan. This is that story of hope for young American Catholics, and it shares the recipe for gaining the peace which God desires for us to find in our vocations.

By Terese Jensen

References:

• Catholics for Catholics (cforc.com) – “Mother Dolores Hart: From Hollywood to a Benedictine Abbey” (The Catholic Patriotic Minute #16)

• Hart, O.S.B., Mother Dolores and DeNeut, Richard – The Ear of the Heart: An Actress’ Journey from Hollywood to Holy Vows

• HBO Documentary – God Is the Bigger Elvis (2012)

• 1961 Film – Francis of Assisi (Dolores Hart as St. Clare)