The Waltons - The Baptism episode - Behind the Scenes with Judy Norton
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- Опубликовано: 6 окт 2024
- www.judynorton.com judynortonproductions
The Waltons - The Baptism. Ralph Waite (John Walton) directs this episode where Rev. Fordwick (John Ritter) has invited a traveling revival Reverend (John Karlen) to come lead an all-day revival and baptism. Rover the peacock is introduced in this episode as Jim Bob finds him and takes him home.
John and Olivia (Michael Learned) are in conflict as she pushes him to attend and get baptized - especially after he is struck by lightening. Judy Norton (Mary Ellen Walton) shares insights in this behind the scenes of The Waltons.
#thewaltons #ralphwaite #judynorton
• The Waltons - The Bapt...
Much respect to Ralph Waite for capturing some amazing shots while at the same time delivering a great acting performance. That man had some serious talent.
I totally agree!
Yancy cracks me up , scared into repentance from getting inside out of the rain 😂
Loved having that touch of humor to break up the tension of the meeting.
@@judynorton2598 he certainly done that, he was great , nobody could ever played the role he did !
I like when Miss Emily says "Papa used to say, eavesdroppers seldom hear good of themselves" and Ike says "I wasn't gonna eavesdrop- I work here!" Always made me laugh 😂❤️ really love this episode. Ralph did an especially outstanding job here. And thank you for addressing the inconsistencies in the episodes, I've noticed them and been confused as well so it's nice to know that you are also confused! 😅
Sorry I couldn’t resolve the confusion for both of us :)
Disclaimer: I am not a baptist, but I think it is up to each individual to decide when they feel they are ready to be baptized. This would explain why some siblings were baptized and others weren't. Sorry if someone else has already addressed this.
I agree. Each has to make their own decision. I was baptized in the Catholic Church as a baby. But, then years later I was baptized as an adult in the Assemblies of God church, and immersed. This is why our church dedicates babies and children to God instead of baptizing them at that age, We should make the choice ourselves.
Being born and raised in the south I’m extremely familiar with Baptist churches and yes you are indeed correct. Each person makes that decision when they are old enough, and it could be some children felt ready before others.
Thank you for sharing.
Forgive me if this becomes long-winded as THE BAPTISM was a memorable episode for me. During filming I was able to glue myself to Ralph Waite and observe his imaginative mind, and directorial skills at work...his lovely way of covering scenes with reaction shots of each of the family is a crucial part of Ralph's magic. Memories of filming include the insert shot of the beef stew being passed along...notice a huge chunk of beef plops onto the table...because we used film (Kodak stock 5247) we had no such thing as a monitor, and the only one to actually view the scene being shot through the lens was our Camera Operator Dick Rawlings, Jr. It was customary, almost instinctive, that our Directors would make eye contact with the Camera Operator anticipating a nod in either a 'yes' manner or a 'no" at which point the Director would either say 'Print" or something on the order of "Let's do it again'"...in this particular situation I vividly recall (almost 50 years later) Dick nodding, but adding "Ben spilled his stew on the table" to which Ralph replied, "Let's move on" Ralph was always thoroughly prepared, so at that moment, we all jumped to the next set-up. As for "Rover": the crew (including me) wished Andy White had made the choice of writing the Peacock out, as his unanticipated LOUD SCREECH often resulted in time loss as Bill Flannery (our Sound Mixer) would have to call for 'Cut' during those backlot scenes...and on several occasions I received angry calls from other shows shooting on the backlot commanding we "Shut the darn bird up!!" Eventually, thank goodness, "Rover" written out, although I don't recall that ever being established. Regarding the Baptisms in Drucilla's Pond: WBros. routinely emptied and sort of cleaned the bottom of the pond. A request to 'sanitize' the water was put in by Ralph Ferrin our Production Manager. The pond was filled the following night. It is my recollection that no one was looking forward to wading into the cold, 'sanitized' water. Memories of my dear friend KATHARINE HEPBURN arise as Kate had taken a plunge into a filthy Venice Canal in SUMMERTIME a feature film directed by David Lean. Kate told me that David had hired a Stunt Double, however, Kate being Kate, insisted on taking the plunge herself. David remarked that they had 'sanitized' that portion of the canal and David said, "Close your mouth and eyes if you go under." While filming the scene Kate said, "I really slipped on the edge of the canal and idiotically forgot to close my eyes and shut my big mouth!" As a result Kate contracted a terrible eye disease which lingered for the rest of her life. Okay, so what I recall of the Baptism scene is lots and lots of extras, lots and lots of set-ups, big concerns of someone slipping on the bottom and drowning...yikes!..and, as for ADs on set, all I recall is Ralph Ferrin, and me...Joe Florence may have been there also. Other memories: Singing the hymn "Stand up, Stand Up for Jesus" in the church was real, enthusiastic, and I recall singing along...the music played over the Baptism Scene was recorded during the Church singing "Shall We Gather at the River" ...maybe John Walmsley could verify this...both Hymns are Public Domain so there was no fee. I do recall shooting the scene where Ralph is struck by lightning clearly remember that John Karlen (visiting preacher Reverend Ezekiel L. Henshaw) scared the 'bejesus' of me while filming his fiery speech in the Church...John was a lovely man, the consummate character actor, I'm saddened to learn he passed in 2020. Basically I believe everyone in the Cast and Crew put effort and enthusiasm into the episodes directed by Ralph Waite spurred on by our genuine affection for him.
Thank you! That was so interesting - wow!
@@lilactreehouse Thank you...your comment means so much to me..I'm realizing so many of us involved are gone, and now, for sure, is the time to share what I was so lucky to experience at the dawn of my career, and I cherish every single moment of THE WALTONS!
@@movieprod Yes, please keep telling your stories! Old Hollywood is the best Hollywood.
@@lilactreehouse It was a grand time for me to be in the biz..and my experience on The Waltons was always the goal line for me i.e. you can have a fine time working with the finest talent in the business.
Thank you for adding more about this episode. Do you recall why I wasn’t at the baptism scene?
The episode was great , Ralph always strove for perfection . The wheel shot was fantastic circle of life John and Olivia shared
Aww, thanks for sharing what that symbolism might have been.
Easily in my top five Waltons and I loved both Ralph Waite's acting and direction in this episode. I could completely relate to where John was coming from just because you don't go to church or get baptized doesn't mean you can't be a good man. John Karlen as the Rev. Ezekial L. Henshaw was everything you'd expect from a man who went town to town saving souls and preaching the word. Thanks again Judy for covering this great episode.
Glad you enjoyed it.
What a lovely episode directed perfectly by Ralph Waite, it has a lot going on in it and Ralph's pacing of the story is just perfect. I have to admit, if a preacher hollered and screamed at me like that, I'd be straight out that door just like John Walton was😆. Thank you for a charming segment today Judy and best wishes to you from your waltonian superfan all the way from a warm England😉
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the subject.
I was so thunderstruck by the incredible acting by John Karlen, but that screaming hollering still petrifies me. Excellent episode, provocative and ultimately compassionate as it unfolds.
The end of the episode where the baptism are happening makes ne laugh everytime i watch.
A really good episode about baptism and what it means to different people of the Christian faith. Ralph Waite did a fine job directing obviously on a subject close to his heart. I know it took me until the age of 21 to be baptized myself which was done in front of the entire congregation of my church, but it was a step of faith I never regretted. Thanks Judy for another great installment of your show. 🙏
Amen 🙏🏻 ❤
The reason some Walton kids are baptized while others not...is because Baptisms in the Bible are Voluntary & intentional (as when John ('the Baptist") baptised Jesus...who was by then a young adult! Nowhere in the Bible is an infant baptized, btw... So...various family members undertake Baptism at different times...and some may not undertake it. Baptism, while NOT required for salvation...is an act of OBEDIENCE to God's Biblical wishes...AFTER having come to a sincere Faith in Christ & His sacrifice on the Cross that SLL who believe in Him will not perish...but have Everlasting Life (John 3:16). Thx for CT reviewing this episode, Judy. I love watching The Waltons, and soaking in so much goodness from their writers & performers!
Glad you enjoyed the episode.
That’s so cool that Ralph was an ordained minister. As I watch the show now and see when Ralph directs, there’s a different feel to those episodes. Or that may just be in my head. Thanks for doing these “looking back” episodes … they’re so fun!
So glad you enjoyed this.
Good episode and it actually explained a lot about some family religious beliefs with a different way to look at it. I have such great memories watching this show with my Mom and sister who have already passed on at early ages. My sister passed away last year on June 22nd from cancer, she’s the one who told me about your channel Judy. She loved you and your channel. I miss she and my Mom so much. 😢
So very sorry for your losses, @debbiesavings7817. Peace and comfort to you.
@@dgs8011 thank you. I appreciate your kind comment hon. 🩷
So very sorry for your loss of your Mom. I’m glad you were able to share The Waltons together.
I'm so sorry to hear of your losses. Hopefully these fun memories of sharing " The Waltons" brings you some peace and comfort!
Growing up as a kid in the 1970's, and having young parents that were from Kentucky (Dad) and North Carolina (Mom), watching "The Walton's" was a required weekly family event!
Hope that was agreeable to you :)
@@judynorton2598 absolutely... they were both in college (Dad survived USAF & Vietnam)... My Mom was the female version of "John Boy", and my Dad, John Sr.
This episode is a great one, and it's also right in the middle of a bunch of really awesome episodes; The Vigil, the comeback, the Firestorm, the Nightwalker, the Wedding etc. etc! It's hard to pick out favorites on this show, but I've always really enjoyed the fifth season!
Me too. So many great episodes in Season 5.
I liked the Nightwalker episode too. It was creepy and kind of scary back then. But the ending was a very good ending.
@@DaveD2488 I know. My favorite episode of season two is "The Ghost Story."
@@megfuchs9425 Yeah anything scary I like.☺
My favorite episode of The Waltons is the one that kicked off season 5, "The First Edition". "The Best Christmas" is also from this season, and it's a classic.
The baptism was an excellent episode.Ralph Waite did a good job, and John Ritter. The Waltons filmmakers made it life like.I think the episode had gotten the message out about baptism and what it's about.
Glad you enjoyed it.
John Walton was never a religious man but his spiritual faith was solid. He just never felt that his spirituality should be defined by religion. Still, he always supported Oliva, the grandparents, and the children attending church services each Sunday. John Walton was such a well written character.
I agree. I believe it reflects Earl’s father.
Judy the baptism is a great episode thanks for sharing
This is one of my favorite episodes
Ed Graves could have been kin to me. My mother's maiden name was Graves. Judy, I just learned last year that I could be distant kin to Earl Hamner. His maternal grandmother and my maternal grandmother had the same maiden name Mann. My great great grandfather was from Richmond. His wife from Charlottesville. They appear on the same genealogy on the internet. My cousin in England does lots of genealogy work. She said the connection must go back to Surrey England. The talks about religion between John and Olivia really happened with Earl's parents. This is a great episode!!! Ralph Waite was the perfect one to direct this one!!!
How fun.
I loved John Karlen. He always called me sweetheart when we would see each other at Dark Shadows Festivals. May he rest in peace..
you met JOHN KARLEN?? I was trying to remember his name and where I recall seeing him when I first saw this Baptism episode. He was very young then. Then someone posted about "Cagney and Lacey" and Wow!! So many impeccable Actors with such range. And this role required an extreme vocal and emotional range.
@@LisaLisa-2023 yes I met him quite a few times. He was also in dark shadows, a soap opera from 1966 through 1971. We used to hold festivals for that soap opera. I used to help out and I manage his autograph line quite a few times. I also got to attend the private parties. He was a wonderful man! I was really upset when he died.
@@dawnslairvlogs6651 Hi Dawn, thank you for replying. I never saw the original Dark Shadows (only the remake in 1990) He was even younger then. I didn't even know he had passed until I read John Daytons post here. To be in the presence of someone wonderful and to share in those glorious times with him/them must've been fun and of course memorable for you. His on-screen presence dominated that episode was it his performance or more likely his personality.
@@LisaLisa-2023 He was a terrific actor. Yes in Dark Shadows he was younger, in his 30s I believe as he was born the same year my mom was. I adored him! I met several of the actors and actresses of Dark Shadows, including Jonathan Frid, who was the original Barnabas. They were all so gracious and kind.
@@dawnslairvlogs6651 Was Jonathan Frid the guy that played Olivia's Art Teacher who was infatuated with her? Is that the same actor in the original Dark Shadows? I imagine the original was better than the remake in the 1990s. I don't think I'd want to watch a remake of the Waltons. Sometimes I like to hold on to the original. I didn't catch Cagney and Lacey either, but I love both Actresses. I regret not watching certain shows with such unparalleled Actors - like John Karlen (especially when they were alive). Thank you for sharing. That was a really cool story.
Thanks Judy. Loved that episode..so well written and acted as were all the episodes of The Waltons. Wish we had shows like that now. 📺😊
Glad you enjoyed it.
I love how, in the end, Olivia reialized that John had his own way to worship. Perhaps the mountain and the woods were his cathedral. Perhaps while hunting for food, he took a moment to appreciate the beauty around him. The sounds of nature were the choir. Being a good person who helped those in need whenever possible and doing his best to provide for his family was more than enough.
Very true.
Judy, I remember this episode well - decades later. What made it work was the conflict. When you present true conflict it draws you right in. Something a lot of writers miss. I can see both Olivia's and John's perspective and both had valid points. It's what made the episode so special to me even back then. When there is no 'bad guy'. Brilliant writing.
I totally agree.
This was a episode alot of people can relate to. Not all married couples are the same religion, causing confusion on how to raise your children. And among couples themselves. Also seeing one of your children going into taverns, and trying to discover a bit of independence, the way Ben did, may be a little over whelming for parent. Thank you Judy.
Very true.
That was a great episode, Judy. Something like that would never be filmed ever again in a network program safe to say.
Probably true.
@@judynorton2598 You are the greatest person responding to most people that message you. I am so thrilled "Mary Ellen Walton" responded to me. ;) I wish you great joy in your life.
John Walton was a good honest man and good provider. I'm glad that Olivia recognized those qualities in him and respected his wishes not to be baptized. Excellent episode and love when Ralph directs.
I like that Olivia was able to resolve this for herself and her love of John.
When John left the church and was soaked by rain was he not baptized ?
@@Georgeweismeyer No. Getting wet in the rain is not baptism. Some churches sprinkle water on the person, but they say a prayer and pronounce something Like, I baptize you John Jones in the name of Jesus Christ.
@@pammeyers106 are you gods daughter or something?
Well, scripted episode, very strong performance, strong performance by each and every actor portraying their character. Well done Performance by actor John Karlin. Who I remember his role on Cagaine Lacey, and on Dark Shadows. Ralph Waite's role was extremely powerful. A powerful scene with John Sr and Olivia at the end of the episode. ❤️ Thank you for sharing these precious memories Judy!
My pleasure. Thanks for watching.
This was a memorable episode for sure. Ralph Waite really was wonderful playing an honorable man who just didnt quite agree with his wife's way of practicing her faith, yet he never was disparaging. He just wanted to believe in his own way. I always enjoyed John Ritter's work on the show too! Thanks Judy!
Well said.
I love the way you explain what happened behind the scenes. You are always so respectful of the series, the actors, and the crew. I feel sure there were moments that were you wanted to be anywhere else but on the set, but you always speak with such grace about your experiences with this iconic television series! TY for keeping the memories alive for us all!
Thank you. I appreciate that.
I loved this episode! Ralph Waite was an incredible actor and director. I'm currently binging The Waltons and am on the 8th season. This stands out as one of my favorite episodes to date. I loved that he was a man of God but did it in his own way. He was such a genuine character!
So glad you are watching the show again.
I saw a great deal of Zeb and John Walton, in my own grandfather. His "church" was his farm, and the land in Upper New York State. He only went into a church for weddings or funerals, but he had a fierce love of God, and creation! He never felt the need to attend church every Sunday. when he communed with God amongst his apple trees and crops. He was a man of tremendous faith, and I totally understand John Walton's point of view. Thanks for sharing this, Judy.
Lots of ways to express one’s beliefs.
Having grown up in the Bible Belt, I think to answer your question about why some of the children were married and others were not, I always took that to mean like a lot of churches in that area that there is an Adult Believer's Baptism. That means that when someone is ready to take on a commitment to be a Christian as an adult (whatever that means in terms of age and maturity) is when someone is baptized. Sometimes people are ready to take that on like as a traditional Bar Mitzvah/Confirmation age (12-13ish) and for others its more like 18 when people are ready to make an adult commitment. That's how I always read that episode. I think I got baptized at the age of about 10 in a creek (true story!) in Corryton, Tennessee. I think it was right after Easter one year and that water was ice cold. The preacher had on fishing waders. If you are not from that culture...it's a whole different world.
I got immersed in a tank at the front of the church inside. I don't remember the water being cold. It must have been warmed. Never thought about it until you mentioned it.
Thank you for sharing that additional info. Very helpful.
I have this episode set to watch tonight. Thanks for bringing this one to us again. I can’t wait to watch it again and go over your assessment in my head while watching
Good timing. Enjoy!
Peacocks are plentiful in Virginia. They tend to flock together up high in trees. The sounds that they make are very unique and distinctive...Some would say even obnoxious. Due to their social nature, it's actually hard to believe that Rover would have been on his own. There should have been five or six more birds along with him.
I did not know that about Virginia. Interesting. I lived across a road from peacocks several years ago. Wowza they are loud!
Good to know. Thanks.
I loved this episode. John Karlen was a very underrated actor. I followed him since his days playing Willie Loomis on Dark Shadows in the 60s. He also played Harvey Lacey to Tyne Daily's Mary Beth Lacey on Cagney and Lacey. I also saw him in a movie with Ricki Lake in the late 80s. He didn't have much of a part in that movie, but made the most of his screen time. Did you get to work with him directly?
He was good in Quincy ME in a couple of episodes. One more dramatic, and another sort of more comedic.
@@julienielsen3746 A comedic episode of Quincy? 🤨
I only remember them as being overly preachy about certain things. Then again, I was your run-of-the-mill douchey teenager when I watched the reruns back in the ’90s. 😂
@@himwhoisnottobenamed5427 The one where Quincy went to a morticians convention Las Vegas. John Karlan was one of the two customs agents looking for some smuggled diamonds. John and the other agent got knocked into the pool at one point. Quincy usually had some comic bits in it. Especially at the end when they ended up in Danny’s restaurant. I liked the one when Quincy was investigating why security dogs were attacking people, and had killed a little girl. Quincy went to a dog shelter and ended up with this funny looking little dog, that he brought to work with him. He tried to hide it from his boss. And the dog came out and kept peeing on his bosses leg. Glad they are putting it on the Get TV channel next month.
I don’t recall anything in particular about working with him. I mostly had the scene in the church.
I always appreciated John’s ongoing struggle with organized religion, and how the series allowed him to stay true to himself. Ralph Waite always played this internal conflict with understated gravitas, never dismissively or contemptuously relative to Olivia’s faith. John, in his own way, was perhaps the most noble and righteous character in the series. I hadn’t remembered that Ralph Waite directed this episode, and he shined both in front of and behind the camera.
Earl Hamner's father was never baptized, so that's why John never was.
I also loved that aspect of the show and agree that Ralph always played it with great depth. Perhaps his personal experiences with religion gave an extra layer to his work.
Very well said!
Thank you Judy 😊
This is one of my favorite episodes. It has so much to say and really, more than anything, turns the camera on us the audience. Every time I watch this, I feel like I’m in Johns shoes. The pressure of religion in the family unit can powerful enough to destroy it. I really resented Olivia’s obsessive push for John to get baptized. She would’ve had to accept Johns position on that way back before they got married, and after 20 years of marriage it’s still a hot potato issue, which to me was unacceptable. Who holds a grudge like that for so long, with a man she married, had 7 kids with, gone through war time and a depression, and you name it and still holds this sword of Damocles over his head that if you don’t get baptized you’ll never be accepted by God? Unreasonable? Yeah! Then she drags him to the revival where John is screamed at essentially over the same thing. And BTW, whose big mouth was it that told Henshaw about John’s situation? To me that seemed like an invasion of his privacy that didn’t need to be held up on a billboard for all to see. Who could blame him for stepping out of that pressure cooker? My dad, who was a Vietnam veteran had said while we watched that episode, that if he had been put in that situation, Henshaw would be missing some teeth and he’d have walked out on Olivia and moved in with Yancy Tucker. Knowing how John can get angry, especially when he saw Rev. Fordwick screaming at his kids while practicing a sermon, it’s a miracle in itself that John, a veteran of a war himself, didn’t lose his cool with Olivia and at the revival. The amount of stress he was getting over this whole thing was monumental. And then on top of all that, you got this screaming bird that just shows up and forces himself into the Walton’s home. It offers nothing for its stay like all the other farm members have to if they wish to live on the residence. All it does is demand attention and parade around showing off it big long feathers. It’s a wonder John didn’t have a nervous breakdown and turned Rover into a Sunday dinner! But at the end of this episode we sort of get a resolution that indicates John and Olivia’s love for each other was more powerful than all of that chaos…but Olivia still has hope she’ll get him baptized!? After all that insanity, and she still wants to push the envelope and risk dropping the last straw on Johns back. A guy, any guy, watching that episode can’t help but be sucked into that drama. The story was that well made, acted and Directed, Judy. Again it’s one of my favorite episodes that illustrates that even without violence, explosions, sex and a multiverse of plot complications, you can still get hyped up over drama if you do quality work. And as Rose would say, “That’s the Key!”
If I were Olivia I would surely want my husband to go to Heaven, and also the children. In the church I go to we don't believe getting baptized is what gets you into Heaven. But, repenting of our sins and receiving Jesus as our Lord and Savior does. I think Baptists do accept Jesus as part of their baptism. We did have three people baptized yesterday in our church in large tank at the front of the church. I was baptized in my 30s in church. I liked Rover. I think he's a cool bird.
Jlomesou, You might also consider the outlook or “pressures” Olivia felt, being taught Baptism aided one’s protection in multiple ways (whether during life, after death or both).
I’d rather see people facing their differences and experiencing challenges and ultimately honoring what parts of their values overlap than have no difference of opinion expressed, advocated for and no conflict experienced. Isn’t that how we learn? We approach something in our view that seems beyond our comfort or understanding and with patience & care (often called discipline), by degrees, our recognition of its complexity and hopefully our ability to grapple with it increases(?).
As far as Rover goes, isn’t there great value in humans caring for and experiencing nature, animals & more, without trying to measure whether that part of nature is self-sufficient without our care?
-Seems Nature, including animals, is most often not demanding a thing from humans and is operating peacefully (generally not requiring supplication by a single species’ standard - except the disruptions of ways humans try to dominate) even building recovery, while humans persistently benefit from what nature does on its own and does without aggression or motive to dismiss needs.
I wish for you more of a personal experience with how nurturing animals are (including many human animals) along with the rest of nature.
(Of course there’s destruction in nature. But how different that is to the ways humans try to overlord & destroy … The latter elements the focus of your comments.)
Glad for the discussions. The Waltons brings up much thought, feeling & hope. Our values are overlapping. ;)
Clearly a potentially polarizing issue. How many wars have been fought over religious beliefs? Perhaps the biggest message of this episode and The Waltons in general is acceptance of others and their personal beliefs whether we agree with them or not. That each of us do our best to live with honesty, integrity and compassion for others. Thanks for sharing.
I think John Walton always had great discipline. In episodes discussed whenever he was angry or hurt, he was seldom violent or unreasonable. John was so cool In another episode when Olivia was kissed by her Art Teacher
who was so enamored with her.
@@judynorton2598 That was so well-spoken. Thank you Judy. I always wanted to know, what was the Writer's intention for his provocative theme? As you noted "the message".
Tks Judy, again such great behind the scenes reporting, and no matter the differences, things work when love is involved.
Absolutely
One of my favorite episodes. Ralph did an amazing job of acting and directing at the same time. Great job!! Thank you.
I agree.
I think this is one of my favorites episodes. The visiting pastor sounds more like an Assembly of God preacher 😅instead of a baptist preacher. I just love it when it starts raining and yancy ducks in the church to get out of the rain and he goes straight to the alter This is just a fun episode and if you truly know the lord you will know what I’m talking about it being a fun episode.
Glad you enjoyed it.
I like Grandpa's line when Yancy got baptized: that Yancy came into the church to get out of the rain and then gets wet all over! So funny and a clever comparison!! Thought it was amusing that Yancy and Ben were intimidated by the visiting, fire-and-brimstone preacher. Wasn't too amusing to John, but not everyone appreciates those old-time preachers. It isn't fun being shouted at, even in the name of the Lord, as the preacher is God's emissary. John said in a subsequent episode that going to church made him feel like a hypocrite. Truth be told, we are all sinners and hypocritical at times. That's the human condition. In the Easter Story, when John and John Boy were talking (I think it was that episode) John said what he believes (spiritually) isn't much different than how Olivia or Grandma believe, except that he doesn't find joy in attending church as they do. He believed "life is a mystery." Quite true in so many ways. Regardless, each Walton episode makes me think and often causes me to reflect on my own life and the parallels within. Any program that evokes so many emotions is so worth it's weight in reruns, giving one the warm feelings of hope, faith and family!!!
Thanks Judy ❤️♥️
My pleasure.
Happy
Summer time
Judy
Love ❤️ the waltons always great 👍 insight Judy you were one of my favorites on the waltons thanks 😊
Thank you so much.
Good to see John Karlen ( Dark Shadows and Cagney and Lacey) good actor!
Nice to have him as a guest.
I've been watching Walton Marathons lately. It feels good to return in my heart to where I grew up on Osgood Hill.. it wasn't a mountain, but the next best thing. It was especially nice when it was cold and snowy outside and wood stove warm and cozy inside.
Thank you for continuing to watch.
Looks like we're all having a good time here thanks to you. Always look forward to whatever you bring to the table it's been a banquet so far right down to the apple sauce cake ! ; )
Thank you so much.
@@judynorton2598 👏👍
@@duanebarbic3786 🍰👍
@@LisaLisa-2023 🍮👍
Well, who would have ever thought Ralph Waite was an Ordained minister. Very surprising based on his character as John. I wonder if he ever thought is was a struggle with his real life faith and his characters faith. I still can't believe even to this day that grandma wouldn't have had John Baptized as a baby or a little boy. Shocking. I can understand John's resistance as well with a preacher shouting in his face. God is a loving god that wouldn't be shouting in someone's face. Great episode and segment.
Glad you enjoyed this.
I love hearing about how shots were filmed as well as the artistic way in which scenes were set up. Since watching you the last few years I’ve learned so much and now watch each show with more of keen eye to details. Thanks for what you do. It’s always respectful and educational. Mary
Very happy to hear that.
Hello Judy 😊This was a strong episode and I'm like John when it comes to religion 😊😊
Thanks for sharing.
Hi Judy! I loved this episode so much! So many things happen in this episode and I get chills every time when they show John getting struck by lightning and then everyone surrounding him when he wakes up. I always love the scenes of Mary Ellen being welcomed home and the very ending scene with John and Olivia where it was shot thru the wheel. Thank you for sharing and I hope you’re having a wonderful day! ❤
Jamie ~ huge Waltons fan ✨
So glad you enjoyed it.
Love this episode.....being a PK. Beautiful hair as always Judy! Thank you for another great episode.
Glad you enjoyed it.
I'm not sure how many know what a PK is. It means a preacher's kid.
Thanks for Good Blog Again! When show was New I Liked That the Walton's Were Baptist. I Am Too!
Glad you enjoyed this.
John Karlen was known for playing Harvey Lacey on Cagney and Lacey.
My siblings we were all baptized together..great episode.
How wonderful.
I noticed none of the continuity issues in this episode. I think I’ve always been so entranced, enjoying my second family when watching episodes, that I don’t look for any imperfection. I noticed script continuity issues in the reunions. But in the first run series episodes, well, I was enjoying my Thursday 8 PM family hug, so I wasn’t in a questioning state of mind. Thanks for another very interesting presentation Judy.
We always hope that the story and acting will override any continuity or other errors :)
@@judynorton2598 , it did for me Judy. As a young person during the first-run years, I believed in the family, and needed to. It was my example of what a loving family might look like and behave like.
I always found it interesting that in the episode "The Sinner" from season one, the missionary who first brought Rev. Fordwick to Waltons Mountain, her name was Miss Crenshaw. And in this episode you talk about, Rev. Fordwick is the one to bring Rev. Henshaw. It kind of went full circle with a gracious twist. ❤
Oh wow, I never caught that.
As others have mentioned, Baptists believe the Bible teaches Believers Baptism; one only gets baptized AFTER they have experienced conversion in their heart. Since that’s different for everyone, that’s why some kids have been baptized and some kids (and John) haven’t.
I see a parallel storyline between John’s personal choice about baptism and Rovers choice to stay/go. Free Will and those intruding on that of others is clearly the theme of this incredibly true-to-life and entertaining episode. ❤️ TFS Judy!!
Thank you. I appreciate the extra details.
How insightful! And I was going to mention to Judy about recognizing the very same parallel! Great minds think alike! LOL Jim Bob had to let Rover free to make his own choice of where and how to live just as John made his choice to leave the church and how to lead his own life. Olivia needs to back off. It's sad that it continued to be a mode of contention for this couple, but it did not dampen their love for one another. And we get to experience such a wonderful episode about faith and the burden of choice in this life: each must decide for him/herself. What a joyful and thought-provoking parallel in this episode, and so true to life!
I watched this episode the other day. it was a good one. the look on Ben's face when he got caught in the dew drop was priceless. it was like oh crap busted. lolol. Another Great video Judy. keep them coming. I Love it. God Bless and take care.
Glad you enjoyed it
God Bless and take care Judy@@judynorton2598
This tension between Olivia and John is very accurate. Here in the south (especially) it was very often the mothers who took the lead regarding religion in the home and impressed their children with the importance of the church and salvation. My father never attended church that i remembered but he supported my mothers efforts to make us go until he felt we reached the age to make the decision for ourselves (which never set well with my mom).
Those sorts of family conflicts are difficult for everyone in the family.
Great Episode and video
Thank you.
@@judynorton2598 Your most welcome
A favorite episode.
I love love love the dynamic between John and Olivia. This episode captures their relationship perfectly.
Others have probably commented on the baptism. In the Baptist faith a person makes the choice to be baptized at some point after they have been saved. The best way I’ve ever heard it explained is that baptism is an outward expression or testimony of your salvation.
I have been in the Baptist church since very young. I have never enjoyed being preached at or see others targeted like John was in this episode. The word should go out and it is up to the individual to accept it.
The revival scene was very realistic. I felt part of the experience. Great coverage of this episode Judy!
Thank you for sharing your additional info.
Thank you so MUCH Judy! And happy Monday!! You answered my question regarding you at the baptism always wondered about that. I always love how Ralph takes different directions when filming gives it such a unique touch that no one else has mastered. Another great episode can't wait for Thursday!!🥰
So glad you enjoyed this.
One of my favorite episodes RALPH IS GORGEOUS
I liked this episode of the Walton’s called the baptism.
We will always miss John Ritter. 😢
That's probably my favorite episode! Thank you, Judy.
Mary Ellen Judy Nortan is a blessing for keeping these going Monday and Thursday’s thank you @judynortan love seeing Olivia’s face
Wonderful.
This is my favorite episode!
Cool.
I.loved it when Ralph directed
He always did a great job.
I can't recall if John Walton fought in WWI France? The AEF front-line experience changed many men's attitudes about God and organized religion. The War did not stop for Sunday worship. Grandpa did not marry Grandmother before leaving for the Army. He wrote her. From training camp, a postcard with poem every time the train stopped to the ship, and more from France. Tone changed after being on the front for 9 weeks. Not much time to develop that on TV, but it was real after WWI. Thanks
John was indeed in WWI. I think he talks about it with Ashley Longworth Jr. (handsome Jonathan Frakes) when Ashley is struggling after WWII. I know he does talk about his experiences in war in a couple of episodes, and I'm thinking that later episode with Ashley is one.
Thank you for sharing that. Yes, John did fight in WWI as did his brother Ben who died.
@dgs8011 maybe a "behind the scenes' with that as a focus. Possibly closer to Armistice Day, now Veterans Day. One other thing: Grandpa was gased in France and it eventually killed him in November 1946. He lost his sense of pitch from the 24/7 sound of shelling. I recall Grandmother saying he used to sing well in church
But not after the War. Thanks
You sang my favorite things From the sound of music i just watched the sound of music
Wonderful. I got to do the stage musical once and thoroughly enjoyed it.
This episode was interesting in a lot of ways.
This was a powerful episode either heaven or hell will spend eternity in that pastor was scaring the Walton kids into baptism whatever it takes to get people to come to Jesus and to be saved baptism don't get you into heaven call upon the name of Jesus to save you than you shall be saved and believe he died for your sins on the cross baptism follows after you get saved great episode judy
I think Baptists receive Jesus as part of their baptism. I'd have to look that up. We are baptized in obedience to God in the Assemblies of God church. Salvation is separate.
Yes your right baptism is a part of salvation after you get saved call upon the name of Jesus baptism follows afterwards but people got to know that their truly saved by Jesus and believe he died for our sins and all than if you truly believe that than your baptized in the water when you have baptism it follows after you get saved a lot of people believe baptism is what saves you or how you get to heaven is by baptism but it's part of salvation but people have their ways of believing
IMO a person’s actions in life play a huge part in their future. As Olivia said to John at the end, she knew he was a good person. Whether one is baptized or not, does not then preclude the need to live with integrity and ethics in one’s life as John did.
John Walton wasn't the most religious person but he was a good person indeed caring man caring father decent human being indeed he didn't need too be baptized to show he was a good person some people don't even get baptized after their saved most do cause it follows after you have been saved John Walton was a great guy indeed judy Olivia knew he was
Peace fully wow Godloveyou much
Ilove your
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Talk about the
Walton wow
Thank you.
I can realte to John in this episode, I have also struggled with that pressure of being saved. My grandmother just like on the show wanted her whole family to be. lol. Love the ending how she respects johns choice and doesn't push.
I love that it wasn’t only one side of the issue that was shown.
@@judynorton2598 Me 2. That is what made the show really awesome. You could realte to the storylines.
Judy, I really enjoy your channel, it's creative and very clever.. why, you might wonder. Because I have to go watch the episode just about every time. I love the Waltons, and I'm going back to watch them with the inside info. is seeing it differently!
I love that! Yay. Glad these are inspiring you to go back and watch the episodes.
So glad you answered my question as to why grandpa was hugging Erin at the baptism when it should’ve been you!!!! You just wonder what “they” were thinking BUT i quess back then everything was so different. Love these videos soo much!!!
Yep - I keep coming across more questions I don’t have answers for :)
Just found your channel and I am thrilled. It’s so hard to find good tv programming today, and I always seem to go back and watch tv shows of my younger years. The Waltons being one of my very top favorites. I have all the episodes on DVD. (And of course, I can stream them all now.) I am looking forward to viewing your other postings. Your an amazing actress and I always loved watching your character on the Waltons. And it’s obvious watching this posting that you are extremely intelligent. I hope many more of these are coming.
Thank you so much. So happy you found my channel. Welcome!!
Easily in the top five Walton episodes
Awesome!
I was thinking about you today. Wow! So much great stuff you share with us! Amazing! Love you!
Thank you :)
Thank you so much. Great episode! I love the episodes that Ralph Waite directed.
Happy to hear that.
For some denominations, baptism is usually performed when one is an infant (i.e. Roman Catholicism), however, adult baptism also occurs within this denomination. One reason why some of the children may have been baptized, while others were not, would be because some denominations (i.e. Baptist convention) leave baptism up to the individual whenever they feel ready. Some decide when they are older, some younger. :)
Thank you for sharing that.
Another awsome episode Judy,Thanks
I remember this episode. In my opinion at the time, and I was a kid, I always wondered why John had never been baptized before because to me, he seemed like he believed. I had not gone to a church like that so I was scared by that Reverend. I also remember the episode of Grandma trying to teach John Boy how to preach.
Speaking of Grandma, have you done a video about Ellen Corby coming back after a stroke? I thought it was so genuinely kind of them to do that. And Ellen Corby had a long career before, the one character I love Ellen Corby as besides Grandma, was Mrs. Lesh, the leader of the gang of car thieves on the Andy Griffith Show.
I did cover “Grandma Comes Home” and speak about Ellen’s return. Here is that link: ruclips.net/video/zE-DRB2ChgI/видео.html
@@judynorton2598 thank you. I will watch it now.
Hi Judy this episode was interesting
That was a good one.
Johns resistance to organized religion was a running theme throughout the series. I wonder if this was something Earl Hamner took from his own life and put in the show ? Great episode. Always love seeing John Ritter ❤
I think it might have come from Earl’s own father.
@@judynorton2598 interesting, thank you.
Probably my favorite episode , my religious views are pretty similar to John,Sr .
I always loved that they showed 2 sides of the story.
Darn, I haven't reached this episode in my current binge watch but I will make sure to watch it now. I forgot that Ralph was in Cool Hand Luke until I saw it recently. Did he ever speak of any anecdotes while filming that? Thanks Judy ! I can't wait to see this episode . :)
Can’t recall Ralph sharing anything about filming Cool Hand Luke - I hadn’t seen it until years later so wouldn’t have thought to ask.
I see a lot of the sets on the Waltons on the TV show Wonder Woman her first season.
How fun.
Love you tub
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Judy
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A very cute comment by Mary Ellen with regard to "Needing all the help I can get" and the idea of getting baptised. I guess we all could say that! I appreciate John's internal struggle with his religious convictions.
Glad you enjoyed it.
fantastic video judy
Have
Aniceforof
4th
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Judy and
Family and friends wow
Thank you. You too.
@@judynorton2598 I can see why you are so loved Judy. thank you for being so cool 😊
Hi Stacy, Hope you have a wonderful July 4th weekend too! 💞
"The den of sin" 😃😂 That's funny!
Yep. And that he found Yancy and Ben there :)
@@judynorton2598 😄 Yancy, one of the original red necks. Robert Donner played the part well. 😅
I understood where John stood. Even today we don't want to be shouted at. We all worship and believe in God our on way.
I like that the show let there be two sides to the story - as it evidently was with Earl’s own parents.
Ralph Wait does a phenominal job capturing all different perspectives in this episode. From baptisms to getting caught in in a place of in a drinking location to I think even Rover getting married! in a great close up zooming in to see Erin, I could've sworn I also saw Maryellen, but your right, it was Erin. You captured Fantastic episode & review, thank you Judy, you always do an outstanding job!
Hi Rita - Who doesn't love Ralph Waite? 😀I think his John Walton Sr character was similar to his own? I don't know from memory which other episodes he directed. but THIS ONE was definitely top-notch. But the screaming and hollering scared me. If I get to see this episode again, I want to hear Rover - I don't recall him being too noisy? John Dayton said Rover was noise pollution. 😁
@@LisaLisa-2023 Hi not too familar with his own personal life, bu yes quite humble person.
@@ritalafleur4417 Hi Rita - so nice to see you again 😊 - I wish I was able to watch The Waltons during its primetime airing. and seeing "John Walton" and the whole ensemble when everyone was together. Ralph Waite does seem like a very humble down to earth sensible man and open about his flaws. I have to rewatch Judy's behind the scenes about Ralph Waite - we can get a much better insight into the real Ralph Waite. and now I want to rewatch this Baptism episode to really appreciate the direction by RW too.
Thank you so much.
This was one of the rare times I felt sorry for John-Boy because having parents with very systems of beliefs is not unlike having parents of different political parties (and I'm leaving it at that!)!
On a much lighter note, nice subplot about Jim-Bob 'adopting' Rover the Peacock and Grandpa's right about peacocks being associated with royalty. Boiled down to essentials this came to be in the Middle Ages because the peacock was associated with the Hera, the Queen of the Greek Gods. Long-short is that her marriage and family was strained because her husband Zeus was rather untrue. To try to help with that, she hired a giant man who had eyeballs covering his body so he'd rat out Zeus and Zeus's flings- which would get Hera to either kill or do something else mean to the fling but nothing to Zeus himself. Anyway, after losing one fling too many, Zeus got fed up with the giant and killed him. This made Hera very unhappy so as a peace or guilt offering, Zeus took the eyeballs from the giants body and put them on the peacock's tail then presented the peacock to Hera who LOVED it and made it her own special pet because not only did it look prettier than the giant but every so often that peacock would make that shrill cry and Hera would know. ...Zeus was up to something!
Before I go, I have to agree that Mr. Waite had some rather innovative framing of the individual shots of this episode! Thanks for sharing it with us!
How fascinating about the peacock’s history in Greek mythology.