The eighth annual National Film Retreat will take place July 6-8 at the Pauline Center for Media Studies in Culver City. The theme of the event is "The City: A State of Mind and Sacred Space," said Daughter of St. Paul Sister Rose Pacatte, director of the Center.

The retreat begins at 6 pm on July 6, and concludes with dinner at noon on July 8. The National Film Retreat is the brain child of award-winning filmmaker Frank Frost, president of Frank Frost Productions in Washington, D.C.

"Film has become a great round-table that people can gather around to talk about things that matter and grow spiritually," he said. "The retreat is a natural consequence of this realization."

Besides Frost, the retreat is directed by Franciscan Father Greg Friedman, Cincinnati-based videographer, radio host, and parish priest, and Sister Pacatte, whose Film Essays appear in The Tidings and co-author of the "Lights, Camera, Faith!" film lectionary series. At the recent Catholic Press Association Awards, Sister Pacatte received second place in the Magazine division, best review section, for her "Eye on Entertainment" in the St. Anthony Messenger.

"The methodology of the National Film Retreat is non-traditional," said Frost. "It is not preached; rather participants give the retreat to each other by sharing insights based on the Scriptures, life experience, and spiritual insights."

The celebration of the liturgy and time for silent reflection is included. The retreat is open to people of all faiths.

"The slate of films for this year's retreat is an invitation to look at 'the city' as a place to grow in holiness in communion with ones family and neighbors," said Father Friedman. The titles of the films are "In America," "Amelie," "City Lights," "Batman Begins" and "Smoke."

Last year's retreat was attended by people from Los Angeles, the greater Southland area and eight states. "This year we already have folks from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Chicago, and a sister from the Philippines who have registered," said Sister Pacatte. "It's exciting to see how much catechists, religious and clergy, pastoral ministers, teachers, industry professionals, and parents enjoy the retreat; some have made three or more over the years."

The deadline for registration is June 25. The cost is $100 and includes meals, coffee breaks and the retreat guide booklet. For registration and additional information, visit www.nationalfilmretreat.org.; call Sister Rose Pacatte at (310) 636-8385; or visit the Pauline Book & Media Center at 3908 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City.