“Promises to Keep” does a good job of showing how messy life can get, but how one can always “come home” to God. Jonathan has long been a good Catholic man and was a devoted husband to his wife. Before he met her, he was in love with Evelyn, “Evie,” who left the Catholic church and Jonathan behind as well. Now that her husband Tom has died, Evie and Jonathan rediscover each other. She wants to have sex, but Jonathan insists they need to take it slow and be married.
The movie features some comedic elements and is, honestly, a bit soap opera-like in its approach. There was a possible abortion in the past by a woman, then we learn that no, she had the child and put him up for adoption. Jonathan’s daughter Lisa and Evie’s son Aaron like each other but have a falling out. Evie tells Jonathan she really loved Tom, and Jonathan says he really loved his deceased wife, yet they have feelings for each other now. The point is made: life can be messy, and people can make bad decisions, but they can also always return to God.
Due to a few sexual moments and comments in the film, we are awarding the Faith-Friendly Seal for ages 12-plus to this film. “Promises to Keep” makes it clear–God always honors his own promise to be faithful.