Priest

Father Greg Pilkington is newly assigned to St Mary's parish in inner-city Liverpool. He quickly discovers that Father Matthew Thomas is engaged in a sexual relationship with the rectory housekeeper Maria Kerrigan, and that Thomas is a left-wing radical who openly advocates Liberation Theology. These revelations set up ongoing clashes with the Bishop, who nevertheless values Thomas's abilities.

Greg witnesses the ongoing clashes between Father Thomas and the Bishop, rooted in Thomas's radical theology and his open defiance of clerical norms. The Bishop struggles to balance disciplinary authority with his recognition of Thomas's talents.

Greg wrestles with his conservative beliefs while confronting his own homosexual urges. He meets Graham at a local gay hangout, and they begin a physical relationship. The emotional crisis challenges his vocation and sense of self.

Lisa Unsworth tells Father Greg that her father is sexually abusing her. The confession is made within the Sacrament of Penance, so Greg is bound by the seal of confession and cannot disclose what he has heard.

Greg attempts to warn Lisa's mother to keep a close watch on her daughter and protect her from her husband. The mother remains naive, trusting that her husband would not harm Lisa.

Mrs. Unsworth discovers her husband is molesting Lisa and realises Greg knew something about it. The confrontation adds to Greg's burden as public suspicion grows.

Greg is arrested for having sex with Graham in a parked car. He pleads guilty to the charge, and the revelation of a Catholic priest's sexual relationship becomes a sensational news item.

The local newspaper runs a front-page story about Greg's arrest, shattering his standing in the parish. Unable to face his parishioners, he relocates to a remote rural parish under the supervision of a disapproving priest.

Father Matthew Thomas persuades Greg to return to St Mary's, and the two priests preside over a Mass together, attempting to heal the rift with the congregation.

The Mass is disrupted by protests from people opposed to Greg's presence at the altar. The two priests distribute the Eucharist, but most parishioners line up to receive from Father Matthew instead of Greg.

Lisa approaches the younger priest and they fall into each other's arms, crying. The moment marks a fragile connection amid the turmoil surrounding the parish.