Central to the play’s narrative is the doubt-ridden Reverend Hewitt, played by NDG’s own Andreas Apergis. The Infinitheatre production is staging from February 19 to March 8 at St. James United Church, and the setting could not be more apt.

St. James is located on a busy stretch of Ste. Catherines St., between big box stores and the bustle of the city. Dawson Hall, where the play is staged, is a tired and beautiful space with exposed sections of wall and lofty wooden pews. Time has taken its toll on the hall, in much the same way as Reverend Hewitt appears worn down and weary.

Enter Paul, played by Eric Davis, an enthusiastic congregation member elated with the sense of divinity. Paul’s certainty in Christ casts Rev. Hewitt’s faith into doubt, and an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting held in the church gradually has all characters of the play question their understanding of faith.

“The backdrop is religion and faith, but the heart of the play is human relationships, and I think we can all relate to that,” Apergis said during a rushed cigarette break from rehearsals this past Tuesday.

“I do have experience, in my own life, to make this character more believable,” Apergis said of fitting into his character. “It’s just a group of people trying to get on with life, and trying to do the best they can.”

There are moments when Apergis is clearly submerged in his character, plagued by self-doubt and questions of faith whirring through his mind.

“[Apergis] allows things to happen naturally, and finds things on the fly,” said artistic director Guy Sprung. “He’s one of the senior actors in Quebec, so it’s nice to have him on board.”

The strength of the play is not only in its actors. Sprung himself has staged works by Beckett and Tom Stoppard, having taught at the National Theatre School of Canada and the Conservatoire d'Art Dramatique de Montréal.

Sprung contacted writer Bruce Smith after viewing his Gemini award nominated television program, Prairie Giant: the Tommy Douglas Story.

Having dealt with controversial subjects in the past, Smith wrote Blessed are They, which treats its subject with a practiced pen that renders religious doubt with subtle humour and introspection.

“I feel that life is infinitely more valuable if there is a point in it,” Rev. Hewitt explains to his wife Kate (Juno London) in one scene.

“Officially,” the point of life is to go to heaven. But, the reverend says, he isn’t really sure what the point is. “I don’t know, but I’m still looking for it.”

Blessed Are They is staging at St. James United Church, 463. Ste. Catherine Street West. February 19 to March 8. Tuesday to Saturdays at 8 p.m. Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. General admission is $20. $15 for students and seniors. Group rates (6+) $10. Box office. 514-987-1774 ext. 104. www.infinitheatre.com