WASHINGTON (November 13, 1997) -- The Christmas message of love is explored in a charming clay animation, "Michael the Visitor," on Sunday, December 9 at 7:00 p.m. on the Odyssey cable network. The half-hour special will be repeated Sunday, December 21 at 5:00 p.m. and Monday, December 22 at 12:30 p.m.

Presented as a "Christopher Closeup" holiday special, "Michael the Visitor" tells the story of Simon, a shoemaker, and his family who struggle to survive a harsh winter in a small Russian village. Without enough money to buy himself a new overcoat, Simon lends his tattered coat to a naked stranger found shivering by the roadside. He welcomes the stranger, Michael, into his home, offers him food, clothing, and shelter and teaches him the cobbler's craft. Years pass and in a dramatic encounter, Michael reveals who he is and teach Simon and family the nature of love.

"Michael the Visitor" was founded in part by the Catholic Communication Campaign, an office of the United States Catholic Conference which initiates and supports media projects that promote Gospel values. It was produced by award-winning Billy Budd Films of New York.

"The Catholic Communication Campaign is delighted to join with The Christophers in presenting such a wonderful family Christmas special," said Ellen McCloskey, the CCC's manager of productions. "We hope that viewers will be touched and inspired by this thoughtful story that gets the Good News around."

Videocassette copies of "Michael the Visitor" (No. 1007, $19.95) can be purchased by calling 1-800-245-8722.

For media inquiries, e-mail us at commdept@usccb.org
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