In the seemingly quiet town of Helena, Montana, Stuart Long grapples with the tumultuous dynamics of his family, where the shadow of his brother's death looms heavily. The emotional strain within the household complicates Stuart's dreams, especially as his parents exhibit hostility toward faith. Determined to carve out a successful life in Los Angeles, Stuart finds refuge in a mundane grocery store job, all while secretly pursuing his ambitions of stardom.
Despite his aspirations, Stuart's journey is riddled with challenges, including a DUI incident and a misguided attempt to hijack his father's truck in pursuit of an audition. During this chaotic phase, he meets the intriguing Carmen, a woman whose charm is only rivaled by her steadfast dedication to her spirituality.
As Stuart becomes enchanted by Carmen, she presents him with a significant choice: baptism, followed by participation in the RCIA program at their local parish. Initially reluctant, Stuart ultimately agrees, setting off on a path of spiritual exploration and forming friendships with like-minded individuals like Ham and Jacob. Jacob's disapproving presence serves as a persistent reminder that not everyone supports Stuart's newfound faith journey.
With each step deeper into this unfamiliar realm, Stuart discovers a renewed sense of purpose, primarily driven by his growing affection for Carmen. Just as things seem to align perfectly, another hurdle arises—Stuart loses an acting opportunity in an infomercial, leading him to seek distraction at a local bar.
It is there that he meets a mysterious individual who cautions him against driving after drinking. Dismissing this sage advice, Stuart chooses to take a ride on his motorcycle, resulting in a devastating accident that threatens his life.
While hovering between consciousness and oblivion, Stuart experiences a profound vision of the Virgin Mary, compelling him to consider the legacy he wishes to leave behind. Against all odds, he makes a miraculous recovery, eventually reconnecting with his father; however, their relationship remains fraught with tension.
In the aftermath of his recovery, Carmen pays Stuart a visit, resulting in an intimate moment that hints at a deeper connection. Yet, it soon becomes apparent that Carmen's intentions are to guide Stuart away from temptation rather than towards it.
This insight leads Stuart to a transformative realization—his calling towards the priesthood has become stronger than any romantic pursuits he once considered. After much reflection through prayer and contemplation, he decides to pursue this noble vocation at the seminary, which causes unease among those around him.
As Stuart begins the application process for the seminary, he faces an initial setback, but he finds solace in the support of Ham and Jacob, now fellow students on their spiritual paths. Despite the obstacles thrown his way, Stuart's unshakeable commitment to his faith brings about a breakthrough—he is accepted into the seminary program, marking the beginning of a profound journey that will reshape his life.
However, fate takes an unexpected twist when Stuart sustains an injury while playing basketball, rendering him dependent on assistance to move. A subsequent diagnosis reveals that he suffers from inclusion body myositis, a rare muscular disease similar to Lou Gehrig's syndrome. This grim prognosis leads to mixed feelings within Stuart; he initially struggles with anger towards God but eventually finds peace in the notion that his suffering might bring him closer to the understanding of Christ's crucifixion. Determined, he continues his seminary studies with renewed vigor.
Meanwhile, Carmen, engaged to another man, visits Stuart, expressing her steadfast support for his unwavering commitment to his vocation. As time passes, Stuart grapples with a gradual decline in motor control, making daily tasks increasingly difficult. Confronted with the stark reality of his condition, the rector solemnly informs him that ordination isn't feasible, citing the inability to perform essential sacraments.
In light of his physical decline, Stuart's family steps up to offer care and encouragement. His father, seeking to atone for past failings, finds redemption through Alcoholics Anonymous, acknowledging his part in Stuart's struggles.
Refusing to be defined by his circumstances, a devoted group of parishioners from California champions Stuart's ordination to the Diocese of Helena. Their collective efforts yield a promising outcome, and Stuart is ordained in the company of Carmen, Ham, and his parents, embarking on a meaningful ministry in Montana.
As time progresses, Stuart's condition worsens, leading him to reside in a skilled nursing facility. Despite this challenging new chapter, his spirit remains unyielding, attracting visitors daily who are drawn to the warmth and compassion he exudes in his ministerial role.
In a poignant moment, Jacob approaches Stuart for confession, admitting that his pursuit of ordination stemmed more from familial pressure than genuine calling. Stuart offers profound reassurances, reminding Jacob that there are many ways to serve God beyond traditional paths. As Jacob departs, he senses a significant parting, taking with him the enduring wisdom and kindness Stuart imparted.
Tragically, Stuart's extraordinary life comes to an end at the age of 50. A heartfelt tribute follows his passing, showcasing photographs capturing the essence of his journey from childhood to seminarian and ultimately to priest.
