Il était une foi

This is a delightful romance between two clergy-persons. Samaire Armstrong as Casey is battling sexism and some hostility among the board of trustees and her own feelings of insecurity and self-esteem. The actress who plays her is very attractive in a "girl next door" way and I liked her portrayal. Her love-interest/colleague is played by Brendan Penny who is a reliable hallmark stalwart. I do have a soft spot for romance involving clergy so full disclosure. I think it adds a certain tension and interest when the parties have to be responsible to a community and maintain a certain standard of behavior that their feelings and emotions might conflict with. The movie does not hit you in the head with Christianity, but also does not shy away from bringing christian values and church politics into the story. I was touched by some of the developments.

Adding to the enjoyment is the delightful Leanne Lapp as Casey's secretary and supporter, Letoya Luckett-Walker as her fellow pastor and wise friend, and Jody Thomson as the supportive trustee. Not to mention Gabrielle Rose as the "baddie" who has a story of her own.

Highly recommend for hallmark movie lovers who are sick and tired of the stale Hallmark plot lines but who want a wholesome sweet romance with a little character growth, conflict and suspense. With more and more options to choose from with Pixl and Up on the scene, Hallmark would be well-advised to stop taking their loyal audience for granted and provide some fresh material and casting as this one does.

Young Reverend Casey Hart (Samaire Armstrong) is promoted to senior minister... temporarily while the committee searches for a permanent replacement. She is seen as little more than a nice helper. She finds herself falling for her long-time mentor David Swenson (Brendan Penny). Donations are down or it could be theft. Traditionalist Olivia Thompkins is pushing to get rid of her. Casey considers leaving the church.

This would be more compelling if it eliminates the sexy romance. It should concentrate more about her faith. The girlie romantic struggle is too lightweight. Also I don't know much about the dating policy within the church. The general tenure leaves the movie as too lightweight. I like Armstrong but at times, she dresses like she's still on the OC. It makes it hard when the movie tries to be serious.

I am not the target audience for this movie at all, I did not even realize this was a family/religious movie and I think that is a good thing because it will appeal to more people. Sure, its about a pastor and church but values and morals are universal. The story was what you would expect from a TV movie.

The story more or less is about a female pastor who is filling in and is not respected by the church officials who don't see her taking over full time, mostly because she is a woman. There is another story line about her romantic life who she gets help with from her best friend.

overall, its a good movie and would recommend it.